A new report shows Australian six-year-olds are falling behind in basic literacy and numeracy.
And the government-commissioned report has suggested national checks should be introduced to try to bring Year 1 students up to standard.
Year 1 school students around Australia may be required to undertake literacy and numeracy checks in the near future.
An expert-panel report led by the Centre for Independent Studies has determined the literacy and numeracy of Australian students is low by international standards.
Education Minister Simon Birmingham says it shows early intervention is needed to ensure children do not fall behind.
