A year after the full implementation of a mobile phone ban in South Australian public secondary schools, significant improvements in student behaviour and interaction have been observed. Premier Peter Malinauskas and Education Minister Blair Boyer have shared new findings that indicate a marked decrease in school-related incidents involving mobile devices.
According to freshly released Department for Education data, there has been a 63 per cent decline in critical incidents linked to social media during the first two terms of 2024. These incidents primarily involved cyberbullying, the spread of explicit content, and derogatory postings online. Notably, most of these issues occurred off school premises or outside school hours.
Further notable statistics include a 54 per cent decrease in general behavioural issues during terms 1 and 2 of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Compliance-related issues also fell by 44 per cent, alongside a 10 per cent reduction in violent incidents, including physical altercations.
The mobile phone policy, broadly banning the use of mobile phones and personal devices such as smartwatches and tablets during school hours, was phased in, with some high schools implementing the rule ahead of others. This state-wide restriction aligns with reports from school principals who observed instant positive changes in student behaviour, including a heightened interest in extracurricular activities during breaks.
Both parents and school staff have reportedly supported the initiative. Its consistent state and school-wide enforcement has assisted in its smooth adoption.
In a statement about the results, Premier Malinauskas referenced broader societal issues with social media, underscoring the government’s proactive steps to safeguard youths. “We knew this was the right thing to do – and one year on, the evidence is in. Children are playing with each other, not on their phones. There has been a reduction in inappropriate behaviour,” he stated.
Highlighting ongoing legal measures, Malinauskas mentioned that at his directive, former Chief Justice of the High Court Robert French is conducting a comprehensive review into prohibiting children under 14 from having social media accounts and requiring parental permission for 14 and 15-year-olds.
Education Minister Blair Boyer echoed the positive sentiment, praising the benefits of the policy. “The mobile phone ban is clearly contributing to ensuring schools are safe environments,” said Boyer. He emphasised the elimination of distractions, allowing teachers to teach and students to learn effectively.
Department for Education Chief Executive, Professor Martin Westwell, spoke about ongoing efforts to support schools in enforcing the policy. Measures include implementing device storage solutions and continuously informing students about responsible social media use.
“Schools continue to provide presentations to students about responsible social media use, and the harmful consequences that can result from inappropriate use,” Westwell pointed out.
Schools and the Department of Education will carry on monitoring the impact of the ban, taking into account feedback from school communities and stakeholders to ensure the policy’s effectiveness and potentially make further enhancements.
More News
