One year since mobile phones were banned or restricted in all Australian public schools, new data has shown an improvement in student behaviour.
Education Ministers across Austrlaia agreed to put the ban in place from Term 1 2024.
A new NSW Department of Education survey shows 87% of students are less distracted in the classroom and 81% of students have seen improved learning, according to almost 1,000 principals.
In South Australia, there has been a 63% decline in critical incidents involving social media and 54% fewer behavioural issues.
It has also now been six months since new vaping laws banned the sale of the devices in corner stores and banned flavours that appeal to young people, like bubble gum and blueberry ice.
Vaping rates have dropped by a third in 15 to 29-year-olds according to the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) when comparing 2024 to 2023, while school suspensions relating to vaping at South Australian schools have dropped by a staggering 50%.
“Teachers tell me these bans are making a world of difference. There are less distractions in the classroom and playgrounds are noisy again. Children are being children,” said Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare.
The latest research from the Cancer Council’s Generation Vape study, also shows the number of young people aged 14 to 17 who vape is in decline.
“As parents bring their kids back to school for the new school year, they can have confidence, as can teachers and young people themselves, that we have finally turn the corner on the scourge of vaping,” said Minister for Health, Mark Butler.
“This data shows the Albanese Government’s vaping reforms are working to prevent a new generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.”
These positive school behaviour results come as the Federal Government has also passed legislation last year that will deliver on its commitment to support parents and protect young people by setting a minimum age of 16 years for social media.
The new laws will come into effect no later than 12 months from 10 December 2024, allowing the necessary time for social media platforms to develop and implement required systems.
