Kara Cook (Bonner, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge the important work of Share the Dignity, a remarkable Australian charity addressing an issue too often overlooked—period poverty. Founded in 2015 by Rochelle Courtenay, a proud Queenslander, Share the Dignity has grown from a grassroots initiative to a powerful national movement supporting women, girls and those who menstruate across Australia. Rochelle's passion and determination are extraordinary. What began as a single collection drive has now evolved into widespread action, delivering essential period products to women fleeing domestic violence, living in homelessness or experiencing financial hardship. Their impact is tangible. Over the years, Share the Dignity has distributed millions of period products and installed hundreds of Dignity Vending Machines, not just in crisis shelters and community hubs but also in public schools, where too many students miss class or suffer in silence because they cannot afford basic sanitary items.

This month, August, is Dignity Drive month, one of the charity's key national campaigns. During this time, collection points open right across the country to gather donated period products, I'm proud that my office is—and I know many other MPs are as well—participating as a registered collection point. Thank you to Share the Dignity for all you do to help our community. May you continue for many, many years.

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