NTCOGSO is commencing work to address the lack of access to the PPEP Talk program (Periods, Pain and Endometriosis Program) in NT government schools. While the program is already funded and delivered in non-government schools through federal government support, no equivalent funding has been provided for students in government schools.

We are following up with the NT Government to understand how this gap can be addressed and to raise the need for equitable access to quality menstrual health education. PPEP Talk aligns with the Australian Curriculum and provides important support for student wellbeing, health literacy and engagement. It is particularly valuable for young people experiencing period pain or other pelvic health concerns that affect learning.

NTCOGSO will be seeking a commitment to fund and implement the program across government secondary schools. This is an important step to ensure all Territory students have the opportunity to access relevant, inclusive and practical health education.

Why it matters:

  • A 2025 study by the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia involving over 13,000 students found that 22.9% regularly missed school or work due to their period.
  • In Tasmania, data collected since the national rollout of PPEP Talk in 2022 revealed that 46% of students from the lowest socio-economic quartile had missed school due to period pain.

Watch this space for updates on our ongoing advocacy in this space.