The Free Product Revolution Reaches Australia

The free product movement is spreading — and one of the most exciting new examples is a startup called On the House, based in Australia. Inspired by the same core principles behind FreeWater, the company has launched a fast-growing network of free tampon vending machines across the country, proving that free and negatively priced business models aren’t just a theory — they’re already transforming real industries.

The idea is simple but powerful: essential products like tampons shouldn’t be a financial burden or pink tax. Instead of charging people, On the House funds their distribution through advertising and sponsorships, allowing brands to reach consumers in a meaningful, contextual way while simultaneously solving a real-world need. The result is a win-win — users get free products, advertisers connect with highly relevant audiences, and the startup builds a scalable, impact-driven business model.

Momentum is building quickly. On the House was recently accepted into one of Australia’s largest tech accelerator programs, a major step that will help them expand their vending network, partner with more sponsors, and reach even more people. It’s a clear sign that investors and the startup ecosystem are beginning to recognize what we’ve known all along: free and negatively priced products aren’t a gimmick — they’re the next major evolution in business.

Projects like On the House demonstrate how these ideas apply far beyond water. From menstrual care to hygiene, medicine, food, and beyond, every essential industry has the potential to be reimagined around free and negatively priced models. And as more startups adopt this approach, they’re not just launching companies — they’re building a new kind of economy. Read the book, "How to Make a Free Product Company" to learn more about these new business models and to create your own game changing business in your city.