On this page
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual assessment for students in years 3, 5, 7 and 9. It tests skills in writing, reading, spelling, grammar, punctuation and numeracy.
The NAPLAN tests are administered in schools across Australia in March. The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) coordinates NAPLAN testing.
The relevant state test administration authority (TAA) administers the tests. The Department for Education is the TAA for all schools in South Australia.
For more information visit NAPLAN information on the ACARA website.
NAPLAN information for parents, carers and the community
Parents, carers and members of the community looking for NAPLAN information can visit NAPLAN information for parents, carers and the community.
Forms and supporting materials
Forms, handbooks, checklists and other supporting materials are available on your intranet.
South Australian public schools can access preparing for NAPLAN – checklists and forms (staff login required) on the department's intranet.
Public demonstration site
Teachers can use the public demonstration site to help students become familiar with the format of NAPLAN Online.
The NAPLAN Online assessment platform uses a locked down browser (LDB) to ensure security during testing. It's recommended that schools use student devices with the LDB installed to access the demonstration tests and familiarise students with the format of online testing.
The public demonstration site provides examples of alternative test items that will be used in NAPLAN Online for students with disability.
NAPLAN marking in 2027
Expressions of interest for 2027 NAPLAN marking will open on 21 September 2026 via a link on this webpage.
Marking is expected to start in mid-March 2027 and will run for 3 to 4 weeks.
Markers:
- gain an in-depth understanding of the NAPLAN writing test and marking rubric, and the processes and stages of writing development
- receive comprehensive training
- are paid for their marking.
Training and marking hours can be accrued as professional development hours. Marking is done remotely, with day and evening arrangements available.
Technology requirements for NAPLAN marking
Recommended device specifications
- Windows PC (Windows 11 Version 25H2 or later) or Apple Mac (macOS 26 Tahoe or later)
- Processor speed minimum range – 2.5 to 3.5 GHz
- RAM – 16GB minimum
- Disk space – recommended 50GB free space
- Screen resolution – 1366 x 768 pixels or higher (for your comfort and effectiveness we would recommend higher if your device and screen support this)
- Screen size:
- Monitor – 17 inch or above
- Laptop – 15 inch or above
The use of Apple iPads is not acceptable.
Internet
- Strong and stable connection
- At least NBN25 (preferably NBN50 and above)
- STARLINK 200Mps or higher
- If either of the above aren't available a 4G/5G wireless connection may be sufficient. But you must have a strong and stable service connection
- Internet speed recommended: > 50 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload – you can test this on speedtest.net
Browser
- Google Chrome – version 149 and above
- Microsoft Edge – version 149 and above
- Mozilla Firefox – version 152 and above
- Apple Safari – version 26 or above
Additional notes for the browser:
- JavaScript and cookies must be enabled
- Browser extensions should be disabled during marking
