Phones off while school's on

The State Government has banned mobile phones in all public schools.

The education and wellbeing of our next generation is one of the government’s priorities. That’s why we’ve banned mobile phones and similar personal devices, like smart watches, in all public schools.

Read the Department for Education's updated mobile phone policy (PDF 682 KB) .

Here's what you need to know:

Why ban phones in schools?
Are there exemptions to the ban?
When will the ban begin?
How can I communicate with my child?
What if there's an emergency?
What does this mean for me and my school?
More information on device safety

Why ban phones in schools?

We want to create the best possible learning environment for our students. To do this, students must feel safe and want to engage.

While mobile phones offer us lots of benefits, they can impact the safety and wellbeing of students when used inappropriately. Banning the use of mobile phones during school hours helps us to limit the negative impact from inappropriate use and reduces unnecessary distractions in classrooms to help both teachers and students focus on learning. It also encourages students to use breaks as quality time away from screens.

Smart watches, tablets and other personal devices are included in the ban. More information is available on the mobile phone and personal device policy page.

Are there exemptions to the ban?

Yes, principals can approve exemptions on a case-by-case basis for students with certain exceptional circumstances. Speak to your child’s school if you need to request an exemption.

Individual schools can also choose to permit students to use personal devices for learning or other agreed, positive purposes.

See more information about how and when exemptions may be granted.

When did the ban start?

As of term 3, 2023, all public schools have the ban in place.

How can I communicate with my child?

Students can still bring their devices and use them before or after school hours.

If your child needs to be picked up early, or there's something that can't wait until the end of the school day, contact the school office for assistance.

What if there's an emergency?

Parents and guardians should use the school’s formal communication channels. Contact the school office for more information about these channels.

Schools will communicate directly with families wherever needed.

Students are encouraged to always report to a school staff member in the first instance if they become unwell or experience an issue at school. This is so staff can provide appropriate support and make contact with you.

What does this mean for me and my school?

Each school has a policy aligned to the state-wide ban.

Your child's school’s local policy includes where phones need be stored at school, what happens if a student doesn’t follow the policy, and if there are times when mobile phone use may be permitted for learning or other exempted reasons.

Students can continue to bring their mobile phones to school to ensure their safety while travelling to and from school. And so they can be contacted before or after school hours.

Contact

For exemptions or specific questions about how the policy is being implemented at your child’s school, contact the school directly.

For general questions or concerns about this policy, contact the department. You can also provide feedback or raise a complaint if you need help resolving an issue.