Submission to QTAC's Review of the ATAR Calculation and Scaling Methodology

NAAE, together with Queensland's peak Arts professional teacher associations, lodged a comprehensive submission to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre's (QTAC) review of the Queensland ATAR calculation and inter-subject scaling methodology.

Drawing on enrolment data, teacher and student surveys, published research and sector evidence, the submission argues that the current scaling methodology is producing unintended consequences for student subject selection, curriculum diversity, educational equity and the future creative workforce.

The submission calls for both immediate reforms to the current system and broader consideration of tertiary admissions models that better support student interests, strengths and aspirations. It was sent to QTAC on 20 July, 2026. View the full submission.

Update: Key findings and priorities for action

Following our July submission to QTAC, the Coalition of Queensland Arts Professional Teacher Associations has released a new summary of the key findings and priorities for action.

The evidence indicates that Queensland’s tertiary admissions system is influencing what students choose to study, what subjects schools can sustain and offer, and students’ access to a broad and balanced secondary education.

The Coalition is calling for urgent action now to stop and begin reversing these impacts, alongside broader reform to investigate fairer approaches to tertiary admissions.

Read the new two-page summary: Queensland's Tertiary Admissions System Is Shaping Secondary Education: Key findings and priorities for action.