If a student uses a mobile phone or smartwatch to manage their diabetes, talk to the school principal to make sure they can use it at school.
Mobile phone regulations at school
In most Australian states and territories, school regulations prohibit students using a mobile phone or smartwatch, even during recess and lunch breaks.
However, all states and territories permit students with medical needs to access mobile phones and other devices if required. This usually needs to be documented in the student’s diabetes management plan.
Requesting mobile phone access for students
To ensure students have access to their mobile phone and/or any other devices they need to manage their diabetes, parents or carers should ask the school principal for an exemption from mobile phone regulations. This request can be incorporated into the student’s diabetes management plan and discussed during meetings with the school.
It can be helpful for school staff to review the mobile phone policy for their state or territory, which will outline exemptions for devices used for health or medical reasons.
State and territory school mobile phone policies
Please note that non-government schools may not adhere to State and Territory policies. Speak directly to non-government schools for advice on access to mobile phones.
Last updated: September 2025