In a recent election promise, NSW Labor has committed to banning mobile phones across all public high schools in the state by the end of 2023.
Chris Minns, the Opposition Leader, expressed he expects the rule to be operational by then, and also pledged $2.5 million to examine the effect of screen-addiction in young people.
The promise comes in response to growing concerns over the negative impacts of excessive mobile phone use among young people. Studies have shown that long-term mobile phone use can lead to physical and psychological health issues, including sleep deprivation, poor concentration, and low self-esteem.
In light of this, Minns has said that implementing a ban on mobile phones in NSW public high schools is an attempt to protect young people from the potential harms of excessive screen-time. He also said the ban is intended to “promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle” for young people, and to “create more face-to-face interactions” between students.
Mr Minns said the use of mobile phones in classrooms had become a distraction and had resulted in a decrease in student engagement and academic performance. He said the current government had failed to address the issue and that it was time for a change.
“We know that mobile phones are a distraction in the classroom and they can have a detrimental effect on learning,” he said.
“You are not permitted to possess your mobile phone; there is no need to determine if that phone is being employed to look into an algebra issue or to dispatch a text message to a companion.”
Prue Car, the opposition spokesperson for education, declared the government will collaborate with school communities in order to guarantee a straightforward changeover.
“Labor will strive to address excessive online use, cyber bullying, education standards, and the critical issue of mental health and wellbeing for our children by instituting a mobile phone ban in high schools,” she said.
