Warning decline in Australia’s adult literacy being hidden by lack of data

Australian business groups, teachers, economists and campaigners have warned about the problem of low literacy levels. Photograph: Farknot_Architect/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Millions of adults Australians are living with a secret shame. They’re hiding the fact they cannot read recipes or bus timetables, apply for a driver’s licence or financial support, or sign rental agreements without supervision.

The federal government has conceded it does not know how many Australians lack these basic skills. The last comprehensive study, conducted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in 2012, put the figure at 3 million people, but no up-to-date data exists.