Preparing for NAPLAN doesn't have to cost hundreds of dollars. There are several quality free resources available to Australian families. Here's a curated list of the best ones, based on content quality, ease of use, and actual helpfulness.
1. ACARA Public Demonstration Site (Official)
This is the official practice site from ACARA — the organisation that runs NAPLAN. It shows the exact test interface your child will use, including navigation tools, question types, and the timer. It's not designed for content practice (there are limited questions), but it's the best way to familiarise your child with the online format before test day.
Best for: Getting comfortable with the test interface. Limitation: Very few practice questions.
2. Brightstar (Free, Comprehensive)
A free NAPLAN practice platform built by an Australian parent. Covers Year 3 (1,000+ questions) and Year 5 (400+ questions) across all four domains. Includes 3 timed full practice tests per year level, mistake review, progress tracking, and AI-powered writing feedback scored against the 10 NAPLAN criteria.
Best for: Comprehensive practice across all domains, especially writing. Standout feature: The only free platform offering AI writing feedback.
3. ACARA Past Papers (Official, PDF)
ACARA has released past NAPLAN papers from 2012-2016 for free download. These are the actual tests that were administered, complete with answer keys. They're in the old paper format (NAPLAN is now online), but the content and question types are still relevant for practice.
Best for: Experiencing real NAPLAN questions. Limitation: Paper format, pre-2016 only, no writing feedback.
4. SubjectCoach (Free + Paid)
One of Australia's largest NAPLAN platforms with 500+ tests across Year 3, 5, 7, and 9. Free members can access selected tests. Premium membership unlocks all tests with detailed progress reports. Used by schools across Australia.
Best for: Large question bank across all year levels. Limitation: Full access requires a paid subscription. No writing feedback.
5. State Education Department Resources
Each state and territory's education department provides NAPLAN information and sometimes practice resources. Queensland's QCAA and NSW's NESA are particularly helpful. Check your state's education website for year-level-specific resources.
Our Recommendation
Start with the ACARA demonstration site to familiarise your child with the test format. Then use Brightstar for daily practice across all domains — especially writing, where it's the only free option with AI feedback. Supplement with ACARA past papers for exposure to real NAPLAN questions.
You don't need to spend money on NAPLAN prep. The free resources available in 2026 are genuinely good enough.
Try Brightstar — 100% Free
1,000+ questions · Year 3 & Year 5 · AI writing feedback · Built by an Australian parent
Start at brightstarprep.com →