A: In early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings across Australia, mobile phone use by educators is now subject to strict national reforms aimed at safeguarding children’s well-being and ensuring professional presence.
As of September 2025, here’s what applies:
Permitted Use
- During official breaks (e.g., lunch, non-contact time), educators may access personal phones, but only away from children and outside supervision duties.
- Phones must be stored securely during contact hours and set to silent or do-not-disturb mode.
Restricted Use
- No phone use while supervising or engaging with children, even during informal moments like transitions or outdoor play.
- Smartwatches with messaging or recording functions are treated like phones—notifications must be disabled.
- Photography or recording using personal devices is strictly prohibited. Only service-approved devices may be used, with written parental consent and secure storage protocols.
National Scope of Mobile Device Restrictions in ECEC
As of 1 September 2025, the Education and Care Services National Regulations require all approved providers across NSW, QLD, VIC, and other states/territories to implement policies for the safe use of digital technologies and online environments. That includes:
- Personal device restrictions for educators during contact hours
- Prohibition on using personal phones/smartwatches to photograph or record children
- Secure storage protocols for service-issued devices and media
- Clear expectations for educator conduct during supervision and engagement
These guidelines are part of a national response to child safety reviews and are supported by ACECQA, the Commonwealth Child Safe Framework, and state-specific child protection laws.
Why the Change?
These reforms follow serious child safety incidents and are part of a broader federal initiative that includes:
- Mandatory child safety training
- CCTV trials in centres
- National educator register rollout
Policy Tip for Leaders
If you're drafting or updating your service’s mobile device policy, consider aligning it with:
- NQF Quality Areas 2 & 7
- Child Safe Standards
- Digital Safety and Privacy protocols
References:
Safe Use Of Technologies And Online Environments
New Guidance On Using Electronic Devices In Early Childhood Settings
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