39471 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Corrections

39471 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister of Corrections: What percentage of prison inmates have been identified as having poor literacy?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I am advised that Education Tutors at each prison site assess the numeracy and literacy levels of people when they enter prison. English literacy and numeracy levels are measured using the Tertiary Education Commissions’ Literacy and Numeracy for Adults Assessment Tool (LNAAT). There are six steps of proficiency, which range from primary school levels of competency (Step 1), through to school leaving competency (Step 6) where English Literacy competency is step four and above. I am further advised that Corrections offers intensive Literacy and Numeracy Support Services to people at Steps 1 or 2 for English Literacy, and people at Step 3 can access other education programmes with embedded literacy such as industry qualification training or secure online learning to improve their skills. I refer the member to the attached table which the percentages of people in prison at each level of the LNAAT as at 30 June 2024.