Over 70% of Australian high school students fail civics and citizenship tests

A recent civics and citizenship test revealed that over 70% of Australian high school students failed, marking the worst results in 20 years. The proportion of year 6 students meeting proficiency standards dropped to 43%, down from 53% in 2019. Only 28% of year 10 students passed the assessment, a decline from 38% previously. Trust in civic institutions has also decreased, with fewer students engaging with traditional media for news. In response, the NSW government plans to implement mandatory civics education by 2027. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare announced funding for school visits to Parliament House to enhance understanding of democracy.