The Victorian government has made a bold move in the fight against excessive screen time in schools, limiting classroom device usage to just two hours a day from Term 1, 2027. This pioneering policy aims to encourage students to engage with more traditional learning methods and reduce distractions caused by technology.
This new regulation builds on last year's announcement affecting primary school students, who will be restricted to 90 minutes of daily device use in years 3-6 and minimal interaction in prep to year 2. Education Minister Ben Carroll hailed the move as a 'full reset' for student behaviour, calmness, and mental health, saying "We want eyes up, screens down." He noted that guidelines for teachers would be issued after consulting with educational institutions.
Experts have largely welcomed the policy, but raised concerns about its practical implementation. Melinda Davis, a senior lecturer in education at Swinburne University of Technology and former secondary school teacher, supports the move, stating that technology has often been overused in schools, leading to distractions during lessons and breaks. However, she fears students may react negatively if their device access is limited.
Exceptions will be made for pupils with disabilities or neurodiversity who rely on technology, as well as those undertaking specialist subjects requiring digital tools. The policy expands Victoria's existing ban on smartphones in state schools, which has been in place since 2020, and will now include smartwatches and headphones from 2027.
Anthony Oldmeadow, principal of Ngayuk College, praised the screen limit as a 'really positive step', acknowledging technology's benefits while also highlighting its potential to distract students. The government claims its measures align with international best practice, with Minister Carroll stating that "tech giants" prioritise profits over young people's well-being.