Victorian Government’s Free Tampon Scheme Draws Fire for Snubbing Local Makers

Melbourne’s small business community is expressing frustration after discovering that a major state government initiative to provide free menstrual products will largely source from international suppliers.

The $23 million program, aimed at placing free pads and tampons in up to 700 public sites, was hailed as a progressive step for period equity. However, an investigation into the procurement process has revealed that contracts have predominantly gone to large, global corporations, sidelining homegrown Victorian manufacturers.

“It’s a real missed opportunity,” said Sarah Chen, founder of a Melbourne-based organic period care brand. “We have fantastic, innovative companies right here in Victoria making high-quality, sustainable products. This was a chance to support local jobs and invest back into our own economy, and it’s been passed over.”

The government has defended the tender outcome, stating it followed standard procurement guidelines focused on value for money and the ability to supply the vast scale required. A spokesperson emphasised that the priority was ensuring reliable access to essential products for women and girls across the state.

But local entrepreneurs argue the criteria failed to account for the broader social value of supporting local supply chains. Industry advocates are now calling for a review of future tender processes to include weighting for local manufacturing, similar to policies in infrastructure projects.

“Next time, we want to see a real commitment to buying Victorian,” Chen added. “Our community deserves these essential products, and our local businesses deserve a fair shot at supplying them.”