My reality, like that of countless other women (including trans and non-binary individuals) globally and in Australia, is defined by the debilitating pain and formidable symptoms associated with menstruation. Every month, we are bound by an experience that, imposes physical tolls which inhibit our ability to function at all, let alone go to school, play sport or go work and be productive. 

 

The anguish this monthly life event inflicts, merits more understanding & empathy, as we are tired of being fobbed off, and being expected to suck it up and soldier on whilst suffering debilitating symptoms such as hormonal troughs, chronic uterine pain at times akin to labour pain, nausea, fever, sweating, leg ache, severe back pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even fainting. At its mildest it is horrid and at its worst, we are incapacitated, bed ridden. Period pain tablets ineffectual. 

 

Furthermore there is the need to go to the toilet more frequently (bladder bowel become sensitive) and there’s the requisite need to change the sanitary collection devices (tampons, pad, cups) regularly, especially for heavy bleeders.  

 

Currently, Australia does not mandate paid menstrual leave. I believe it is high time we change this and make paid menstrual leave a right for those who suffer. 

 

Australian women should not have suffer the financial burden nor lose their holidays over something not their fault.

 

I propose that Australian women, trans and non-binary individuals be entitled to 12 paid menstrual leave days per year. 

This legislation will not only alleviate personal physical and mental suffering but also improve productivity, as a healthier workforce is an effective one.

Globally, countries including Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, and most recently, Zambia have recognized the need for menstrual leave. In Japan, a law passed in 1947 allows women who suffer from heavy menstrual symptoms to take days off. In Indonesia, menstrual leave is part of labour laws since 2003. (Source: BBC News)

The absence of any such provision in Australia disregards the medical reality of about 800,000 individuals annually who experience disorders like Endometriosis which cause debilitating pain during their menstrual cycle. (Source: Endometriosis in Australia research)

Let's create a future where no one must endure unnecessary suffering simply because their natural physical processes aren't acknowledged by current employment frameworks. Let's enable Australian women, trans, and non-binary individuals to work with dignity and without the added anxiety of potentially losing a day's wage due to their menstrual cycle. Join me in urging our legislators to mandate 12 paid menstrual leave days annually for Australian Women. Please sign this petition today.