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Australian students’ understanding of civics education has reached an all-time low, according to national test results released on Tuesday.
The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) conducts the test to assess “attitudes and engagement” with civics and citizenship.
It found that only 43 per cent of Year 6 students met the proficient standard in 2024, a decrease from 53 per cent in 2019.
For Year 10 students, just 28 per cent reached the proficient standard last year, down from 38 per cent in 2019. The results among both year groups are the worst on record since the assessments began in 2004.
ACARA’s website defines the proficient standard for Year 10 students as having a detailed understanding of Australian democracy.
“They make connections between the processes and outcomes of civil and civic institutions and demonstrate an understanding of the common good as a motivation for civic action,” it states.
ACARA chairman Derek Scott said: “At a national level, the 2024 assessment revealed a significant decline in achievement. The percentage of students meeting the proficient standard has dropped sharply at both Year 6 and Year 10 levels compared to the previous cycle.”
“Additionally, this is the lowest percentage of students reaching the proficient standard at either level since the assessment began.”
ACARA’s online example test for Year 10 students includes philosophical and governance topics, ranging from multiculturalism to protest laws.
Below is a sample of some of the questions. Test your knowledge to see how you measure up:
