Ban is set to apply across Victoria in 2027
Vision Australia has raised concerns about a Victorian government announcement banning smart glasses in schools across the state in 2027, saying the change affects students who are blind or have low vision.
In a media statement dated 21/10/2026 and timed 12:55, the organisation said smart glasses have shown to be an important piece of assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision, supporting their ability to access information and navigate independently.
Chris Edwards, Vision Australia Chief Mission Officer, said students who are blind or have low vision have the right to learn and play alongside their peers and governments should not be limiting that by restricting the use of assistive technologies in the classroom.
Exemption and wearable technology questions
Edwards said the Minister for Education had stated that smart glasses would be permitted “when no other suitable adjustment can be provided”.
Chris Edwards, Vision Australia Chief Mission Officer, stated: “This does not address the needs of students who are blind or have low vision.”
He also said the approach creates unnecessary hurdles for students and their families to navigate, rather than schools working collaboratively with families to find solutions that lead to positive education outcomes for students.
Vision Australia also questions what this ban means for the use of specialist blindness and low vision wearable technologies in classrooms that have been on the market for a significant period and perform similar functions to mainstream smart glasses.
Vision Australia stated: “Vision Australia is extremely disappointed that the government has made this announcement without consultation with the disability community and thorough consideration of the impact it will have on students with disability.”
The statement was attributable to Edwards and was issued on 21/10/26 as a media statement titled “Vision Australia concerned by Victorian schools smart glasses ban”.
It says it offers services, equipment and training so people who are blind or have low vision can live the life they choose.
The organisation says its staff support clients across all age groups at home, work, school and in the community with skills and tools to help lead active, safe and independent lives.
The statement ends with the word “Ends.”
