A new initiative at a western NSW high school to provide sports bras is encouraging its female students to tackle their physical education head on.

The idea first formed at Gilgandra High School after staff were alerted that some girls were experiencing pain or discomfort when taking part in sport or physical education.

Acting Deputy Principal, Ilana Austen, said high school was a time when everyone felt a little self-conscious, and this could make students, both boys and girls, feel embarrassed and even put them off participating in sport.

“That’s when it occurred to us that making sure everyone has the equipment needed is such a crucial step in easing some of that uneasiness or discomfort that can come with getting in and having a go,” Ms Austen said.

The school decided to invest funds into getting a mobile professional bra fitter into the school for students who wished to take part.

It’s resulted in a 20 per cent lift in female participation at Gilgandra High School's 2024 athletics carnival.

Now, 59 girls, with 2 professionally fitted bras each, are set and ready to hit the field, track or court, feeling more secure and confident than ever.

“The girls all felt very comfortable, and it was extremely professional,” Ms Austen said.

“The change in demeanour has been palpable. Now, the girls can focus on scoring a goal, making a try, working on their defence… and they’re not stuck worrying about how they look, or how uncomfortable they might be feeling.”

Ms Austen said Gilgandra’s rural location was another barrier that could impact girls and young women’s access to adequate clothing.

“You have to drive all the way to Dubbo to get to all the major stores; and that just factoring in the cost of getting there, let alone paying for fittings and the bra itself – not everyone has the time or means to make that trip.”

Ms Austen said the biggest payoff of all was knowing the school was doing what it could to help ease any physical pain students might have been experiencing.

"The girls are talking about being more comfortable, having less back pain,” Ms Austen said.

“That positive impact can go so much further than just the sport field, but into the classroom as well.”