A ban on mobile phones at public secondary schools, introduced a year ago, has shown significant improvement in student behaviour and interactions.

New data has been released as the mobile phone ‘off and away’ policy reached the one-year anniversary of its full introduction.

Department for Education incident reporting data shows there has been a 63 percent decline in critical incidents involving social media in terms 1 and 2 of 2024 –compared to the same period in 2023, before the ban was in place. This includes cyber bullying, circulation of explicit issues, derogatory content being posted online or other concerning online behaviour.

Analysis also shows that most of the issues reported in this category have taken place off site or outside of school hours.

The data also reflects a decline over the past 18 months in matters reported to the department centered on students not complying with the policy or overall behaviour involving phones, along with a reduction in incidents of violence, particularly involving kicking or punching.

This includes:

• 54 percent fewer behavioural issues during term 1 and 2 2024 compared to term 1 and 2 2023.
• 44 percent fewer policy compliance issues during term 1 and 2 2024 compared to term 1 and 2 2023.
• 10 percent fewer violent incidents during term 1 and 2 2024 compared to term 1 and 2 2023.

The policy was introduced in a staged way, with some high schools choosing to bring the ban in earlier. The policy applies to mobile phones and personal devices including smart watches, iPads, tablets, and personal laptops.

Department for Education Chief Executive Professor Martin Westwell said we continue to work with schools to support this ‘off and away’ policy.

"In some instances, this means the introduction of pouches or lockers, while in others it is about ensuring consistence in how this policy is managed, or working with parents to ensure clarity around expectations".

"Schools continue to provide presentations to students about responsible social media use, and the harmful consequences that can result from inappropriate use".

In the wake of the phone bans coming into force, principals reported immediate changes in student behaviour, particularly around increased demand for extracurricular activities or clubs to be available in break times.

They have also reported that the policy has been supported by parents, and more widely accepted because it was introduced state, and school, wide.

"We are pleased to hear anecdotal reports of changes in student behaviour reflected through increases in physical activity and play and meaningful face-to-face connections with peers" said Professor Westwell.

"The Department will continue to monitor the outcomes and identify areas for improvement moving forward, including gathering feedback from school communities and key stakeholder groups".

Read more about the department's mobile phones and personal devices policy.