NAPLAN 2026: one in three below benchmark again, reading keeps sliding

ACARA's 2026 NAPLAN results, out 4 August, show one in three of 1.2 million students tested are below reading, writing and numeracy benchmarks — unchanged from 2025. Reading fell in years 5, 7 and 9. One in ten need extra support. A writing-paper glitch and Tasmania's low participation marred the release.