"Today's disturbing NAPLAN results reinforce the need for urgent attention to build the skills we need to meet future workforce needs in a rapidly changing world," said Innes Willox, Chief Executive of the national employer association, Australian Industry Group.
"While there are some encouraging improvements in numeracy, particularly in Years 5, 7 and 9, with more students achieving at the highest proficiency levels than in 2023, the results highlight areas requiring attention, including weaker reading performance in some year levels and a concerning decline in Year 3 numeracy.
"The overall picture of stability is not enough and Australians should expect continuous improvement in the foundational skills that underpin educational success, workforce participation and economic prosperity.
"Australia's long-term economic performance will depend on the capabilities of the people currently moving through our school system.
"Every cohort of students that leaves school without strong literacy and numeracy skills represents a missed opportunity for individuals, employers and the nation. Poor literacy and numeracy skills reduce the opportunity for rewarding employment and individual growth and prosperity. Simply tolerating these results is not an option.
"As technology, artificial intelligence and economic transformation accelerate, Australia will increasingly rely on a workforce capable of lifelong learning and continuous adaptation.
"That adaptability begins with strong literacy and numeracy.
"These results should be viewed not only as an education issue but as a workforce and productivity issue.
"Research by Australian Industry Group's Centre for Education and Training highlights that almost 9 in 10 Australian employers report being affected by low levels of literacy and numeracy among their workforce, which directly translates to a range of negative impacts on productivity.
"Australia's long-term economic performance will depend on the capabilities of the people currently moving through our school system.
"State and federal governments must make strengthening literacy and numeracy a genuine national priority through sustained investment in evidence-based teaching, early intervention and targeted support for students who need it most.
"The NAPLAN results show this work cannot wait," Mr Willox said.
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