The National Inquiry into the Teaching of Literacy was a broad, independent examination of national and international reading research, teacher preparation and practices for the teaching of literacy, particularly reading. It included a review of national and international research about literacy teaching approaches, especially those that assist students with reading difficulties. This was a high profile inquiry, attracting considerable stakeholder interest.
An independent committee chaired by Dr Ken Rowe from the Australian Council for Educational Research and consisting of eminent members of the education community as well as a journalist and a parent conducted the Inquiry in 2005. The Inquiry’s report, Teaching Reading, was presented to the Australian Government on 8 December 2005. The Inquiry recommended reform in the following areas:
- evidence-based approaches to the teaching of reading
- the role of parents
- school leadership and management
- standards for teaching
- assessment
- the preparation of teachers
- ongoing professional learning
The Inquiry’s report, containing twenty recommendations, is available at: http://www.dest.gov.au/nitl/report.htm 
The Inquiry consulted widely, including through a public submissions process, meetings with key stakeholders, and site visits to selected schools across Australia. The Committee also conducted a study of primary teacher preparation courses in the Australian higher education sector. The Inquiry was supported by a Reference Group consisting of representatives from a large number of professional organisations. The findings of the Inquiry and other research evidence will be considered by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) as a part of its work on literacy and numeracy reform under a National Reform Agenda.