The New South Wales government has faced criticism over declining student performance in key academic areas, according to recent international testing data. Research from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) reveals that 15-year-old students in NSW are now more than two years behind their parents’ generation in mathematics and reading skills.

The PISA results indicate a steady decline since 2009 in the proportion of students meeting national standards. In mathematics, only half of NSW students reached the required level in the latest assessment compared to 63 percent in 2009. Similar downward trends were observed in reading performance.

Mark Speakman, the NSW Opposition education spokesman, described the findings as “concerning” and accused the current government of becoming complacent. He urged the administration to take immediate action to improve literacy and numeracy outcomes, emphasizing the need for explicit teaching methods, including phonics, and enhanced teacher training in classroom management and discipline. Speakman warned that the ongoing decline threatens both the state’s future prosperity and public confidence in the education system. He also highlighted a reduction in full-time public school teaching staff as a result of growing dissatisfaction.

In addition to falling academic results, PISA noted behavioural challenges among Australian students. The country ranks poorly on student behaviour metrics compared to other nations, with only nine out of 91 countries reporting lower rates of bullying and classroom disruptions. This aspect was highlighted as a contributing factor to the education challenges facing NSW schools.

Responding to the criticisms, NSW Education Minister Prue Car defended current government initiatives. She pointed to ongoing reforms focused on increasing the number of teachers and strengthening support within schools, expressing confidence that these measures will lead to improved academic outcomes over time.