Tampon tax!

Chani • Photographer, nature lover, strong, spirited, kind, plant based, loyal friend. TTC.
In Australia we have certain items deemed 'essential items' that are exempt from tax. Things like condoms, lubrication, water, bread etc... But there has been a big debate for years because our government thinks sanitary items are not deemed essential items!! It's totally ridiculous. How can condoms be tax free but not tampons? 
How is it in other countries? Do you have tax free essential items?