Tasmanian Government students will now be able to access sanitary items at school as part of the Tasmanian Liberal Government’s plan to remove barriers to learning and improve education outcomes.
We know that listening to students and understanding their needs is important to improving student wellbeing, and further engaging them in learning.
Last year, two Exeter High School students wrote to the Government asking for free sanitary items for girls in our schools. The letter explained that many students struggle to buy these products, and sometimes even miss school because of that.
We are responding by making pads and tampons free in all Government Schools for those who need them.
I would like to congratulate the students who brought forward their idea, which is a fantastic example of the power of students influencing positive change for themselves and their peers.
Students have guided the approach from the beginning and have continued to be involved in determining how these items will be accessed in schools.
We know that education is the single most powerful driver for improving economic and social outcomes in Tasmania including health, life expectancy, happiness and productivity.
That’s why the Tasmanian Liberal Government is investing a record $7.5 billion over the forward estimates, with an additional $204 million in capital works, in addition to our election commitments, to support teachers, students and improve education infrastructure in our schools.
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