2018-03-07
The Greens today welcomed Deputy Labor Leader Tanya Plibersek's comments that she wants to see the GST on menstrual hygiene products scrapped and called on Labor and the Coalition to support parliamentary action to axe the 'tampon tax'.
"The Greens are drafting a bill to fix this unfair and discriminatory tax, and we need Labor to get on board and support it," said Senator Janet Rice, Greens spokesperson for women.
"Tampons, pads and sanitary items aren't an optional luxury, so they shouldn't attract GST."
"The Greens sought to fix this issue last year by moving amendments to a GST bill before the Senate, but Labor and the Coalition voted it down. If they are serious about fixing this issue they should support our bill to get the job done."
"The states and territories have a role to play in this issue, but it's up to our Federal Parliament to take leadership to see the GST removed from menstrual hygiene products, once and for all."
"The Greens have thousands of names added to our petition calling for this unfair tax to be scrapped. It's clear Australians want action and leadership on this issue," concluded Senator Rice.