Victorian state schools slapped with phone ban

Victoria statewide mobile ban in classrooms is starting next year. Federal Government Education Minister wants other states to do the same. Source: AAP

Victorian public schools students will have to lock their phones away from next year in a push to deter cyber bullying and increase performance.

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Victorian public school students will be banned from using their phones from next year.

Students will have to switch off their phones and store them in lockers until the final bell, Education Minister James Merlino has announced.

"This will remove a major distraction from our classrooms so that teachers can teach, and students can learn in a more focused, positive and supported environment," he said in a statement.

"Half of all young people have experienced cyberbullying.

"By banning mobiles we can stop it at the school gate."