Victorian secondary schools will be asked to build planned device-free learning time into classroom programs from Term 1, 2027, as schools face closer scrutiny over how technology is used in teaching.
The Victorian Government said the change is not a ban on classroom technology. Instead, it asks schools to make clearer decisions about when devices support learning and when offline instruction is more appropriate.
For principals and school leaders, the direction is likely to affect curriculum planning, lesson design and whole-school approaches to student engagement. The government said digital devices should be used intentionally, rather than as a default part of classroom activity.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy was intended to support learning time. “Less time on devices means more time learning.”
What the direction means for secondary schools
The secondary school direction follows earlier limits on device use in Victorian primary schools. Digital device use has already been limited to 90 minutes for students in Years 3 to 6, while use in Prep to Year 2 is expected to remain minimal.
In secondary settings, device-free learning time could include:
- more written work
- whiteboard instruction
- group discussion
- practical experiments
- performance-based activities
The government said the aim is to ensure technology is used only where it has a clear learning purpose.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said screen-free time would be included in curriculum planning: “We know that screen-free time is important to help students engage with their learning, so we’re asking schools to include it in their curriculum.”
Digital literacy results add to the challenge
The direction comes as schools continue to balance concerns about screen use with expectations around digital capability. The latest National Assessment Program – ICT Literacy (NAP–ICT Literacy) results found that only 50% of Year 6 students and 37% of Year 10 students reached the proficient standard in 2025.
That creates a practical challenge for school leaders. Schools are being asked to limit unnecessary device use while still helping students use technology effectively.
Further guidance due in Term 3
The Victorian Department of Education said further guidance for secondary schools will be released in early Term 3, 2026. That guidance is expected to clarify how planned device-free learning time should be reflected in teaching and learning programs.
The direction also builds on Victoria’s existing school mobile phone ban, which the government said was intended to support student safety and engagement. The announcement was made at Ngayuk College in Kalkallo, allowing the government to link the classroom technology policy with its wider school infrastructure agenda.
Ngayuk College has opened with 200 Year 7 students, with additional year levels to be added as the first cohort moves through secondary school. The campus includes classrooms, creative and science spaces, a library, a sports field and outdoor courts. It is located near Marra Specialist School and Kalkallo North Kinder.
The government said the new campus forms part of its wider school building program. It said it has now delivered 121 schools and invested $20 billion in building and upgrading schools across Victoria. Local MPs said the new campus would help meet demand in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor.