This report presents the findings from a rapid literature review of approaches, programs and interventions that promote student attendance and address student absence. The findings of this report underscore the multifaceted nature of school attendance issues and the necessity of a comprehensive approach to improve attendance.

This report presents the findings from a rapid literature review of the barriers to school attendance and reasons for student absence. It discusses the strength of evidence related to barriers and reasons for absence across the different systems influencing young people’s development.

One of the biggest challenges schools face at the start of 2025 is the persistently high levels of student chronic absenteeism. The goal of this report is to elevate student engagement as an important indicator to combat chronic absenteeism and help young people thrive in school. The report defines four modes of student engagement and...

This issues brief addresses commentary surrounding educational equity and highlights Australia’s good standing and progress on international equity measures. It shows Australia consistently ranks above the OECD average in both excellence and equity.

Australia’s long-term increase in student absence rates is of increasing concern for educators, researchers and policy-makers nationwide. This report reveals diverse, and sometimes contradictory perspectives, on the causes, consequences and potential solutions to school attendance issues, especially in the post-COVID era.