Melbourne, October 20 An Australian primary school has banned mixed-sex consensual hugging, giving reason: it sets a "bad example" to younger students.

Largs Bay Primary School in South Australia apparently took the step after complaints from parents.

Now, pupils won't be allowed to hug or display affection for "boyfriends or girlfriends" in the two senior grades.

"Hugging is not banned (between friends) at Largs Bay Primary School but we do discourage displays of affection in the schoolyard among students in years 6 and 7 who have a boyfriend or girlfriend at the school," the Daily Telegraph quoted principal Julie Gail as saying in a statement.

She added: ". . . we want our older students to set a strong example for younger students at the school." (ANI)