Mobile Phone Use Bans for State Schools

Joan Pease MP • 2023-07-11

Mobile phones and certain wearable electronic devices like smartwatches will be banned at all Queensland state schools during school hours – including break times - from Term 1, 2024.

Key Points:

Full ban will commence by Term 1 2024 – mobile phones to be ‘away for the day’

Almost all state schools already have bans in place, but not all cover break times

Department will work closely with schools on implementation options

Principals and school leaders across Queensland have already implemented bans and been supported to do so: over 95% of schools have a clear policy banning the use of phones during class times, with the remaining schools restricting usage informally. Of the 95% of schools with classroom bans, around 15% do not extend to break times. Earlier this year, Minister Grace asked the Department to seek the latest information about the different approaches being used in state schools; appointed former Queensland Family and Child Commissioner Cheryl Vardon to carry out an independent review into the current policy; and sought discussion on a nationally consistent approach through the Education Ministers’ Meeting. Ms Vardon’s full report is due later this month, but she has advised one of the core recommendations is to implement statewide restrictions on the access to mobile phones and certain other devices during school hours. Once Ms Vardon’s full report is received, the Department will work closely with schools on how to best implement the ban in a way that reflects the realities of their school. For example, a small school in the outback may require students to hand phones in to a nominated staff member, while a school with thousands of students may choose to use lockable pouches. Queensland will also continue its nation leading work into anti-cyberbullying. The Department of Education's dedicated cybersafety team has been singled out for praise by a Royal Commission for both its preventative and reactive achievements; the Respectful Relationships program is backed by $15m for specialist advisors and investment in professional development; and a University of Queensland independent evaluation has commended the Department’s strong commitment and measures to reduce cyberbullying.