URGENT UPDATE: Starting in 2027, Victorian public primary schools will enforce strict screen-time limits for students, mandating a maximum of 90 minutes of digital device use for those in years 3 to 6. While this initiative aims to enhance focus and learning, it has raised pressing questions about the funding for communal devices in schools.
Authorities confirmed that this new policy will reduce the need for parents to purchase digital devices, potentially saving families over $500 per child. Schools will provide access to tablets and laptops, with additional devices funded through each school’s budget. However, Education Minister Ben Carroll acknowledged the challenge of securing the necessary resources, stating that many schools already have a bank of laptops available.
“This will actually give young people more focus in the classroom, better concentration levels, better regulation in the classroom,” Carroll told reporters on Thursday. He emphasized that the initiative aims to help children reclaim their childhood by minimizing distractions from technology.
Psychologist and former teacher Jocelyn Brewer praised the screen-time limits but stressed that the effectiveness depends on how educators utilize digital tools in their teaching. “The quality of the content and it enhancing what’s being learned is really important,” Brewer stated. She warned that students could end up consuming “digital junk” even within the new time limits, underscoring the need for thoughtful integration of technology in lessons.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan remarked that managing children’s screen time is a global challenge for parents and educators alike. Despite the enthusiasm for the initiative, concerns linger regarding funding. Shadow Treasurer Jess Wilson pointed out that schools are already operating on tight budgets and need clarity on where the financial support for devices will come from.
“This screen-time restriction is a step in the right direction, but schools need to understand where the money to pay for devices is going to come from,” Wilson said.
The Australian Education Union criticized the government’s expectations, calling them unrealistic. Union President Justin Mullaly highlighted that the government has cut $2.4 billion from school budgets through 2031, which significantly undermines efforts to provide students with up-to-date technology. “The Allan government is living in a dreamland if they think public schools have the budgets available to provide devices to all students,” Mullaly stated.
These changes will roll out gradually and will align with the federal government’s upcoming social media ban for users under 16, effective December 10. Victoria has previously led national efforts to reduce distractions, having banned mobile phones in public schools since 2020 to combat cyberbullying and improve focus.
As the rollout of these screen-time limits approaches, parents and educators are urged to prepare for significant shifts in classroom dynamics and technology usage. The next steps will involve close attention to funding solutions and effective implementation strategies as schools adapt to these new requirements.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
