The Federal Government’s ban on mobile phones and vapes appears to be paying off, with a new survey of 1,000 NSW school principals showing a marked improvement in student behaviour.
A year on from the government’s restrictions on mobile phones, 87% of students are less distracted in the classroom and 81% of students have seen improved learning.
In South Australia alone, there has been a 63% decline in critical incidents involving social media and 54% fewer behavioural issues.
“Our ban on mobile phones and our ban on vapes are improving behaviour in classrooms. Teachers tell me these bans are making a world of difference,” Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare, said in a statement.
“There are less distractions in the classroom and playgrounds are noisy again. Children are being children. This is helping teachers and parents and supporting happier, healthier children.”
The Federal Government’s world-leading vaping reforms are also reaping benefits, with vaping rates having 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.
Vaping related suspensions in the state’s schools are also down by a staggering 50%, the data revealed. Additionally, the latest research from the Cancer Council’s Generation Vape study, 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,” Minister for Health Mark Butler said.
“This data shows the Albanese Government’s vaping reforms are working to prevent a new generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.”
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said keeping children safe is “a collective responsibility”.
“We are stepping up to play our role. We’ve listened to young people, parents and carers, experts and industry in developing these landmark laws to ensure they are centred on protecting young people – not isolating them,” Minister Rowland said.
“We will continue to act in the interests of young people and vulnerable Australians.”