Queensland Education Minister, Grace Grace, has announced a ban on phones and smartwatches devices during school hours.

While 95 per cent of state schools in Queensland already have policies restricting phone use during class times, the new ban will extend to all aspects of the school day. 

Non-state schools will have the freedom to decide their own phone use policies. 

The decision to implement the ban follows a review conducted by former Queensland Family and Child Commissioner Cheryl Vardon, who recommended the prohibition of phones and certain wearable devices during school hours. 

Minister Grace said the health and wellbeing of students would be prioritised in the rollout, with measures to address emergency situations and consider educational uses of mobile devices.

The Queensland Teachers Union supports the ban, highlighting the benefits of increased face-to-face socialisation among students during breaks and improved classroom focus. 

Union vice president Leah Olsson noted that mobile devices can also serve as educational tools.

The ban will take effect in Term 1 of 2024. 

Students will still be allowed to bring phones to school for communication with parents or carers outside of school hours. The Department of Education will work closely with schools to implement the ban effectively, considering the unique circumstances of each institution.