Naplan results 2025 reveal a troubling decline in reading and writing proficiency across Australian schools, with one in three students failing to meet national benchmarks. The latest national standardised tests, taken by 1.2 million students in years 3, 5, 7, and 9, show that reading and writing scores have worsened for almost every age group compared to 2025, while numeracy has seen modest improvements.
Key Findings from Naplan Results 2025
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (Acara) released the results on Wednesday, highlighting persistent challenges in literacy. Average reading scores in years 5, 7, and 9 went backwards, while year 3 reading remained stable. Writing scores stayed similar to last year, but Acara included a caveat due to a technical issue on the first day of testing that affected writing papers for years 5, 7, and 9.
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One in three students still fail to meet benchmarks in reading, numeracy, and writing—a figure that has not budged since 2025. Additionally, one in ten students require “additional support,” meaning they are not working towards expectations and need further help to progress.
Numeracy Gains Offer a Bright Spot
Despite the literacy setbacks, numeracy levels have improved since the tests were reset in 2023. The national average score for numeracy reached 67% meeting benchmarks, with 29,000 more students achieving “exceeding” status. Gains were also evident among Indigenous students, with more achieving “exceeding” in years 7 and 9 compared to 2023.
Comparison Table: Naplan Performance 2024 vs 2025
| Subject | Year 3 | Year 5 | Year 7 | Year 9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reading (2025) | Stable | Declined | Declined | Declined |
| Reading (2024) | Stable | Stable | Stable | Stable |
| Writing (2025) | Similar | Similar* | Similar* | Similar* |
| Numeracy (2025) | Improved | Improved | Improved | Improved |
*Caveat due to technical issues.
Implications for Parents and Educators
These results underscore the urgent need for targeted literacy interventions. The average proportion of students “exceeding” or “strong” in reading dropped to 66.3%, down from 68.2% last year, indicating a broader slide in reading proficiency. Educators and policymakers must focus on evidence-based strategies to reverse this trend.
- Reading and writing skills are declining across most year levels, demanding immediate attention.
- Numeracy improvements show that targeted efforts can yield positive results, offering a model for literacy.
- Participation rates were affected by industrial action and flooding, but Tasmanian results were withheld due to data quality issues.
- One in ten students need additional support, highlighting the need for early intervention programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Naplan benchmarks?
What are the Naplan benchmarks?
Naplan benchmarks are national standards that define the minimum level of proficiency expected for each year level in reading, writing, numeracy, and other assessed skills. Students who meet or exceed these benchmarks are considered to be on track for their year level.
Why did reading scores decline in 2025?
Why did reading scores decline in 2025?
Reading scores declined in years 5, 7, and 9 compared to 2025, possibly due to factors such as reduced reading engagement, learning disruptions, and inconsistent instructional approaches. The exact causes are yet to be fully analysed by educators and researchers.
How can parents help improve their child's Naplan results?
How can parents help improve their child's Naplan results?
Parents can support their child by encouraging daily reading, engaging in conversations about books, and using educational resources. Regular practice with sample questions and focusing on foundational skills can also boost confidence and performance.
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