Naplan Results Show Reading and Writing Decline Across Australian 2026

Naplan results for 2025 reveal that reading and writing scores are declining across Australian schools, with one in three students failing to meet benchmarks. The national standardized tests, taken by 1.2 million students in years 3, 5, 7, and 9, show a concerning trend in literacy proficiency that demands immediate attention from educators and policymakers.

Key Findings from the 2025 Naplan Results

The latest Naplan results show that average reading scores in years 5, 7, and 9 went backwards compared to 2025, while year 3 reading remained stable. Writing scores remained similar to last year, but one in ten students now requires additional support in both reading and writing, indicating a growing gap in essential literacy skills.

Participation was slightly lower due to industrial action in Tasmania and flooding in the Northern Territory, which led Acara to exclude Tasmanian state-level results. Additionally, technical issues on the first day of testing affected writing papers for years 5, 7, and 9, though Acara included a caveat rather than adjusting marks.

Comparison of Naplan Performance Over Time

Numeracy Shows Positive Gains

Amid the literacy decline, there is a silver lining: numeracy levels have improved since the tests were reset in 2023. For years 5, 7, and 9, the national average score of meeting benchmarks rose to 67%, with 29,000 more students exceeding expectations. Gains were also evident among Indigenous students, with more exceeding in years 7 and 9 compared to 2023.

What This Means for Australian Education

The decline in reading and writing proficiency is a red flag. Strong literacy skills are foundational for academic success and future employment. The fact that one in three students fails to meet benchmarks suggests systemic issues that require targeted interventions, such as improved teacher training, more personalized learning support, and increased investment in early literacy programs.

Key Takeaways for Parents and Educators

• Reading scores dropped in years 5, 7, and 9; year 3 remained stable.
• One in three students still fail to meet Naplan benchmarks in reading, writing, and numeracy.
• Numeracy improved, with 67% meeting benchmarks and more students exceeding.
• Indigenous students showed improvement in numeracy, but literacy remains a concern.
• Technical issues and participation disruptions may affect result accuracy.

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