The Allan Labor Government has introduced legislation to extend Victoria’s school device ban to all schools, including non-government schools, from 28 January 2027.
The changes build on rules first introduced in public schools in 2020 and will now apply to private and independent schools, creating a single statewide standard.
The legislation also expands the ban beyond mobile phones to include wearable technology and personal audio devices.
Under the proposed laws, mobile phones must be switched off and stored away from the first bell to the final bell.
Wearable devices, including smart watches, must have notifications, cellular connectivity and recording functions disabled during school hours.
Personal audio devices, such as wireless earbuds and headphones, cannot be used during school hours.
The expanded rules apply to devices capable of messaging, recording or accessing online content during school hours, including wearables that can take photos, record video or receive notifications.
Exceptions will apply for students who need devices to monitor health conditions.
The legislation will make Victoria the first state to apply these restrictions to wearable technology in schools.
Some support the changes, arguing they will reduce classroom distractions, limit unauthorised recording and help students focus during lessons.
Others say consistent rules across all schools will remove confusion for families with children in different systems.
However, some would argue the expanded ban could be difficult to enforce, particularly when it comes to wearable devices that are less visible than mobile phones.
There are also concerns about how schools will monitor compliance and apply the rules consistently across different settings.