How Much Does Having a Period Really Cost in Australia?

Let’s talk about something half the population deals with every single month: periods—and more specifically, how much they actually cost.

We’re not talking about pain relief or time off work. This is purely about disposable menstrual products—pads, tampons, and liners. Because while periods are natural, they aren’t free—and the numbers might surprise you.

The Real Cost of Disposable Period Products

On average, people in Australia who menstruate spend around $15 to $20 per month on disposable products. That’s about $180 to $240 per year, depending on product choice and flow.

Over a lifetime (typically 35–40 years of menstruation), that adds up to over $7,000–$10,000.

That’s a solid chunk of money spent just on managing something you didn’t exactly sign up for.

What Does One Period Actually Look Like?

Most people use around 20–25 items (pads, tampons, or liners) per period.
For many, that means buying two packets of products per cycle.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common use:

• 1 pack of tampons: ~$6–8

• 1 pack of pads: ~$5–7

• Optional panty liners: ~$4–6

Total? Around $15–$20 per cycle, on repeat every month for decades.

Branded vs. Budget: A Big Price Difference

Let’s talk price tags. Choosing a budget or supermarket brand can save you big time:

That’s nearly 3x the cost difference for essentially the same function. No wonder so many shoppers are switching to supermarket labels.

The “Tampon Tax” is Gone, But Costs Are Still Rising

In 2019, Australia scrapped the 10% GST on menstrual products. This brought some relief (finally recognising them as essential). But fast-forward to now?

Prices are rising again—thanks to inflation. In 2023, the average cost of sanitary products hit over $11 per item, up nearly 5% from the year before. That’s $3 more per period—and it adds up.

Not Everyone Can Afford Period Products

Here’s the uncomfortable truth:

• 64% of menstruating Australians say they’ve struggled to afford period products.

• 25% have worn a pad or tampon for longer than recommended just to make it last.

That’s not just unhygienic—it’s dangerous.

And it gets worse in rural and remote areas. In places like the Northern Territory, a pack of pads can cost up to $25. If you need two packs per period, that’s $50 a month—just for pads.

Government Support: What's Being Done?

There is some good news. All Australian states and territories now provide free period products in public schools.

And in 2024, Victoria became the first state to roll out free pads and tampons in public places—from libraries to hospitals. 700 locations. 1,500 dispensers. Game changer.

Other states are watching closely. And advocacy groups like Share the Dignity are pushing hard for wider access, especially for low-income families and remote communities.

So… What’s the Bottom Line?

Managing your period with disposable products in Australia costs:

• $15–$20 per month

• $180–$240 per year

• $7,000–$10,000+ over a lifetime

That’s not small change. And for many, it’s an expense that causes real stress.

It’s why we talk about period poverty, and why we support making menstrual products more affordable—and even better, reusable alternatives that save you money in the long run.

Because bleeding every month shouldn’t cost you a fortune.