Learning to read and write changes everything
MORE THAN 40% OF ABORIGINAL ADULTS HAVE LOW LITERACY.
IN REMOTE AREAS THE FIGURE CAN BE AS HIGH AS 70%
While a community's literacy levels remain low, any attempt to overcome disadvantage will face enormous challenges. Illiteracy sabotages success.
Literacy is the first step towards turning things around.
Children of literate adults perform better in school.
Low literacy is linked to poor health, substance abuse and high mortality.
Reduces interactions with the justice system.
Literacy is a pathway to employment and further education.
Enhances community participation and engagement.
A parent's literacy plays a key role in the early years of a child.
"Until people can read and write we won't close any gap. Literacy is the first step."
Jack Beetson, Literacy for Life Foundation.