The Grattan Institute, a public policy think tank, claims that failures in teaching children to read properly in Australia is costing individuals and the broader economy billions throughout their lifetimes. Approximately one in three Australian students failed to meet the basic literacy standards set by Naplan, and the think tank views this problem as preventable. The culprit, according to Dr. Hunter Jordana, Director of the Grattan Institute’s Education Program, is inadequate teaching.

Students who face difficulty in reading often land in low-wage jobs or unemployment, which not only limits their earning potential but also leads to government spending more on welfare, public health, and justice, while receiving less tax revenue. The Grattan Institute’s calculations identify a rough estimation of a $40 billion cost to Australia over the lives of those most severely affected.

The think tank suggests that state governments, territories, and both Catholic and independent schools should strive to make a minimum of 90% of students proficient readers. It also advocates for a universal screening of reading skills to help identify struggling students earlier and recommends guidelines for teachers based on a structured literacy approach, emphasizing the importance of phonics in early education. The institute emphasizes the clear evidence supporting this method of teaching children to read.

The reading struggles faced by students is a critical issue that Federal Education Minister Jason Clare acknowledges needs effective resolution. He calls for the upcoming National School Reform Agreement to be more focused on successful strategies in teaching and to provide proper funding for educational institutions.

In conclusion, reading and literacy skills are critical for the economic health and wellbeing of both the individual and the nation, and resources should be deployed efficiently to address this urgent challenge. For tailored information to assist with reading proficiency and literacy programs, concerned individuals can contact the education department or access relevant resources online. Websites such as eddcaller.com offer quick access and guide on how to get in touch with department authorities or education services. They provide details on how to contact EDD or how to get through to EDD effectively. Whether it is EDD customer service or California unemployment customer service you need, your solution is just a few clicks away.