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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 2026
Applications for 2026 NAPLAN marking is now closed.
Marking is expected to start in mid-March 2026 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 also be accrued as professional development hours. Marking is done remotely, with day and evening arrangements available.
Technology requirements for NAPLAN marking
OLA (Online Assessment System)
Device
- Windows PC or Apple Mac
- Processor speed – 1.8GHz or faster
- RAM – 8GB minimum
- Disk space – recommended 20-32gb free space
- Screen resolution – 1024 x 768 pixels or higher (we would recommend higher if your device and screen support this).
- Screen size:
- Monitor – 17 inch or above
- Laptop – 15 inch or above
Windows version
- Windows PC - Windows 10 or later
- Apple Mac – macOSX 14 (Sonoma) or later
Internet
- NBN25 or higher (preferably at least NBN50 and above)
- 4G/5G wireless connection (strong and stable service connection required)
- Internet speed recommended ≥ 10 Mbps download / 2 Mbps upload
- Stable connection required (speed test: https://www.speedtest.net/)
Browser
- Google Chrome – version 128 and above (current version 140)
- Microsoft Edge – version 128 and above (current version 140)
- Mozilla Firefox – version 143 and above
- Apple Safari - version 18 or above
Additional notes for the browser:
- JavaScript and cookies must be enabled.
- Browser extensions should be disabled during marking.
Promote marking opportunities at your site
Download the NAPLAN Markers promotional poster (PDF 165 KB) to display in staff areas.
For more information contact the NAPLAN Helpdesk:
Email: education.NAPLAN@sa.gov.au
Freecall: 1800 316 777
