The state government is removing the requirement for parents to provide digital devices for primary school students.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll announced that parents at Victorian Government primary schools will no longer need to buy a device for their children.
Schools will be required to provide access to tablets and laptops for students to use at school. To further support student learning and engagement, screen time limits will also be introduced to all schools.
The changes will be phased in gradually to support schools’ transition to the new arrangements.
From 2027, primary schools will benefit from updated guidance to help set sensible limits on device use in the classroom. This will mean that primary schools will be required to limit digital device use to a maximum of 90 minutes per day for students in Years 3-6, and minimal device time for those in Prep to Year 2.
These new time limits will promote purposeful technology use, reduce overexposure to screens and help students stay focused and engaged.
New guidance and support materials will be distributed to schools in term 1 next year to help schools plan lessons using digital devices.
