Several Australian schools are scaling back digital learning initiatives and imposing stricter controls on in-class technology use amid concerns about screen time’s impact on student attention and academic performance. Both state governments and private institutions are reconsidering policies relating to device use, online platforms, and screen exposure in classrooms.
Trinity Grammar School in Sydney recently announced it will block student access to YouTube on school-managed devices following an internal review that found only around 10% of viewing on the platform was educational. Principal Tim Bowden emphasised the decision was aimed at managing distraction and enhancing learning, stating the ban applies even when devices are used off campus. He clarified that the move is not an outright rejection of technology but an effort to introduce it thoughtfully, with appropriate safeguards.
Other private schools are also revising their technology approaches. Newington College, based in Sydney, plans to discontinue its bring-your-own-device (BYOD) program for Year 7 students, opting instead to provide school-issued laptops starting next year. Similarly, The Illawarra Grammar School in New South Wales has adjusted its screen policies to reduce classroom distractions, requiring senior students to keep laptops under their chairs unless needed. Principal Julie Greenhalgh highlighted concerns about screens creating barriers between teachers and learners.
In Queensland, Mastery Schools Australia limits screen use to designated technology lessons such as coding, with no reliance on devices for literacy or numeracy tasks. The school also incorporates typing tutorials to build students’ digital proficiency.
At the state level, governments are responding to data indicating increased digital distraction and declining academic outcomes. New South Wales has introduced a cap limiting public school students to as little as 15 minutes of daily screen time in classrooms. Victoria has adopted similar restrictions for primary schools and plans to ban BYOD programs outright in high schools from 2027.
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare supports a national “digital detox” aimed at rebalancing education toward traditional methods like reading and handwriting. Clare cited evidence suggesting that excessive screen use may hinder information retention and contribute to falling literacy and numeracy scores. He acknowledged the importance of teaching digital skills, including responsible use of artificial intelligence, but urged a measured approach to technology in education.
Other states and territories are also considering reforms. South Australia is developing guidelines on screen time use based on input from educators and academics, while Western Australia will provide system-wide advice on technology integration. Queensland officials have not committed to enforcing specific screen limits but stress maintaining a balance between digital and non-digital learning.
The Northern Territory, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory are similarly exploring policies to regulate classroom technology. The issue is expected to be a key topic at an upcoming meeting of education ministers from across Australia.
Nationally, Australian students spend an average of 2.6 hours daily using technology for learning-related activities, a figure reportedly twice that of the OECD average. Education authorities appear increasingly cautious about the role of screens in schools as they seek to address concerns about student engagement and academic achievement.