Clean Up Australia says that a women can use around 5-15 thousand disposable pads and tampons in their lifetime, with around 90% of conventional pads containing plastic. These are disposed of in landfill and can take 500 years to decompose.
Whilst there are sustainable options for disposable items available, the most sustainable option is reusable.
The initial cost of reusable sanitary items may be higher than disposable, however over the long‑term reusables are more budget-friendly. For example, a menstrual cup costs around $40 to purchase upfront and lasts for 10 years. The cost per use for a menstrual cup is 9 cents, compared to a single-use tampon costing 50 cents each.
The City of Fremantle is helping women make the most sustainable choice by removing cost barriers on reusable sanitary items by offering a rebate of 50% back (up to $50).
What items are eligible for the rebate?
Reusable menstrual cups, pads, and underwear.
There are many options to choose from, and a combination may be an option. For more information on what products might suit you view this brochure on Sustainable Menstrual Products by ACT Govt.
Applying for the rebate
Residents within the City of Fremantle are eligible for this rebate, provided no one in the household has applied for it previously. After purchasing your reusable sanitary items, retain the receipt. The receipt must contain an ABN.
If you are under 18, please have a family member or carer apply on your behalf.
To apply you will need copies of:
- Proof of residency (eg. driver’s license, rates notice, lease agreement or current utility bill).
- Purchase receipt(s). Multiple receipts are acceptable for the application if required, however, only one application may be made per household.
Please note that receipt must not be more than three months old. Postage, and fees, are not eligible for this rebate. Multiple receipts are acceptable in the application.
Rebate
If successful, your cheque rebate will be posted to you within six weeks. Please allow an additional two weeks if applying during the Christmas-New Year period.
Rebates are limited to the annual budget. The City reserves the right to end this rebate offer if this budget amount is reached. Final applications, if the budget has not been reached, are on 9 June 2024.
More information
Contact the City’s waste team on 1300 MYFREO (1300 693 736) or wasteed@fremantle.wa.gov.au