La Trobe University Emeritus Professor Marian Pitts runs a sex survey on behalf of the Federal Government and told metropolitan media that putting condom vending machines in a range of public places, including schools, was the best way to combat increasing rates of sexually transmitted infections among teens.

School of Total Education principal Shane Power said it was an "overreaction" to put condom vending machines in schools.

"Schools are doing more than just educating students academically," Mr Power said.

"We are teaching them about hygiene, health and personal responsibility. That has to be where the problem needs to be addressed, in a preventative way.

"It needs to start early, as a natural part of their schooling, not as a knee-jerk reaction to an issue."

A post on on our Facebook page drew dozens of comments from readers, with a mixed range of views on the issue. 

Here's a sample of what readers had to say...

Ben Balderson: If I had condom machines when I was at 

school I woulda filledem up with water and thrown them at other students  wat Is sex?

Elizabeth Kenny-Walsh: Great idea! Teens have sex and you can't stop it. Let's keep them safe!

Catherine Emerson: I think whole cohorts should have a few lessons on how easy it is to catch diseases, how much your body changes during pregnancy and after birth. That'll give them a good scare.

Steph Shelley: Seriously has the world gone crazy!! Promoting sex!!!! I'm sorry but I don't care what anyone says it's not a joke or something to do for fun!!! I can't believe so many are supporting this. Yes more education is needed, what happens to your body, mind and LIFE when you do have children! But giving them this extra encouragement won't change or stop the amount of young mums it just makes it a game at school to be the "cool" kid with condoms in their wallets!! Why would you want your child taking part in what you call "Nature"..... Are they in a loving relationship with respect?? Or just oh whoops got drunk and now having someone's baby???

Janice Maree Knight: I think its a good idea . Your not going to stop them having sex . Therefore they have the opportunity to be safe . Human Nature . We cant be with them 24/7 .

Lyla Satterthwaite: I think I'd rather my child use them than not after all it does help prevent a lot of things inc aids u can't stop them 100% from the outside world where there is ways for them to have sex etc I'm sorry but I agree better private ways to get some form of protection