The 2026 NAPLAN national results were released on 5 August (ACARA, 2026). I do not intend to add to the annual commentary about where the scale points moved. Movements of a few points across a national cohort tell an individual school or student very little, and the yearly cycle of that commentary has not advanced the debate in two decades.

Secondary leaders are not resisting reform, and they are not defending a failed status quo. They are asking to be trusted with the work they are trained to do, and backed by systems that make that work possible.

As the leading voice for secondary education in Australia, ASPA calls on policymakers, educators, and communities to work together to create a stronger, fairer education system. Bold leadership, informed by evidence and grounded in collaboration, can ensure that every Australian student can access high-quality education that supports their potential.