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Using recent OECD and Australian datasets, this issues brief cuts through misguided commentary surrounding educational equity and highlights Australia’s good standing and progress on international equity measures.

Part 1 identifies the primary drivers of Australia’s educational shortcomings – which are neither funding, the prevalence of non-government schools, or ‘school segregation’ but more important factors, including student attendance, classroom management, and decreasing participation in NAPLAN, particularly among disadvantaged groups.

Part 2 acknowledges that Australia’s successful model of school choice and diversity significantly contributes to the success of the nation’s educational landscape. ������ Catholic Schools have maintained the highest attendance rates for both Indigenous and low-SES students despite the impacts of COVID-19 on school attendance and participation.