Research

Explore the latest research and insights into reading from Australia and abroad

Australia Reads is committed to learning more about the reading habits and behaviours of Australians. Explore our latest research projects, or get in touch to discuss how you can partner with us.

Understanding Australian readers report

2024

Gain an in-depth understanding of the drivers and barriers to recreational reading for Australians in this world-first behavioural science research report into reading with BehaviourWorks Australia.

Read the report

Live Literature in Australia

2024

Find out more about considerations and barriers for hosting events with authors and illustrators, in this joint research project with the University of Melbourne.

Find out more

Research Review

2023

Explore a round-up of the latest research on reading from Australia and abroad, broken down by reader demographics and topics.

Find out more

National Reader Survey

2021

Gain an insight into how Australians read, buy, and borrow books in this broad spectrum population survey.

Explore the findings

Reading fiction for just five minutes a day reduces stress levels by nearly 20%

– The Queens Reading Room Study

74% of children agree that reading is a way to help them understand the world

– Scholastic Kids and Family Reading Report

Reading is four times more influential on intellectual progress in teens than having a parent with a degree

– A Chapter A Day Report

43% of readers said reading helps them get a better night’s sleep

– Reading Between the Lines Report

Reading fiction for just five minutes a day reduces stress levels by nearly 20%

– The Queens Reading Room Study

74% of children agree that reading is a way to help them understand the world

– Scholastic Kids and Family Reading Report

Reading is four times more influential on intellectual progress in teens than having a parent with a degree

– A Chapter a Day Report

43% of readers said reading helps them get a better night’s sleep

– Reading Between the Lines Report

Report release: Understanding Australian readers

Australia Reads and BehaviourWorks Australia are pleased to announce the publication of a major new research report into recreational reading behaviours in Australia

February 2025

Report release: Understanding Australian readers

Australia Reads and BehaviourWorks Australia are pleased to announce the publication of a major new research report into recreational reading behaviours in Australia

February 2025

The benefits of reading for mental health

From reducing stress, to getting a better night’s sleep, reading for pleasure has proven benefits for mental health and wellbeing.

June 2024

The benefits of reading for mental health

From reducing stress, to getting a better night’s sleep, reading for pleasure has proven benefits for mental health and wellbeing.

June 2024

Key insights into live literature events in Australia

A new research report investigates the considerations and barriers to hosting live events with authors and illustrators

March 2024

Key insights into live literature events in Australia

A new research report investigates the considerations and barriers to hosting live events with authors and illustrators

March 2024