xxxxTITLE OF PROGRAM
What is a decodable reader?
A decodable reader is a specially designed book that helps young children learn to read. These books use simple words made up of letters and sounds (like "s," "a," and "t") that children have already been taught in the classroom.
Instead of guessing words from pictures or context, children use what they know about letter sounds to “sound out” or “decode” each word. This helps build strong reading habits from the start.
As children learn more letter-sound patterns, they can read more complex decodable books. These books are a great way for early readers to practice their skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the success of reading on their own.
Decodable readers are important because they:
Match the child's current knowledge of sounds and letters
Encourage sounding out words rather than guessing
Help develop reading fluency and confidence
Support a proven approach to learning to read called the science of reading
By giving children books they can actually read, we help them become independent, skilled readers right from the beginning.
Why decodable readers?Using decodable readers is one of the most effective ways to help children learn to read with confidence. These books are carefully written to match the specific letter-sound patterns children are learning in the classroom, allowing them to practise new skills in a way that feels achievable. Instead of relying on guessing or memorising whole words, children learn to break down words into sounds and blend them together - an essential skill supported by the science of reading. This evidence-based approach helps build strong foundations in phonics, supports independent reading, and gives young learners the satisfaction of reading real books on their own. Decodable readers don’t just teach children how to read - they open up a world of possibility, helping them access knowledge, explore their imagination, and build a lifelong love of reading.
HOW IT WORKS
Is my school eligible?
To apply for funding for decodable readers, schools must be:
In the Griffith electorate
Service primary aged students in Prep to Year 3
State, Catholic, independent and other Queensland schools are all eligible
What can be purchased?
Eligible books must be:
Decodable readers appropriate for students in Prep to Year 3
Available to purchase online from one Australian website
No more than three (3) packs / online items (each pack these may contain multiple readers)
Totalling no more than $1,000 including postage charges within Australia
How to apply?
Send your completed application to renee.coffey.mp@aph.gov.au before Friday 12 December 2025.
Your application will be held at the Griffith electorate office and valid for the full term of parliament. Applications will be granted on a rolling basis from August 2025 through until the end of 2027.
Should your school’s application be successful, we will be in touch! Should you wish to make any adjustments to the products you would like at that point in time, please let us know.
Readers will then be purchased and dispatched to the Griffith electorate office and then we will deliver these to your school.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can the school pay the difference if items total more than $1,000?
No. The total cost for up to three packs (including postage within Australia) is to be no more than $1,000.
Can our three items include book packs?
Absolutely! For example, some sites have 6 books, 6 copies of each title, for $396.00. Under this program, your school could get two of these (120 readers) fully funded.
Can we purchase the items and have you reimburse us?
No. Once your application is approved, we will be in touch. We will arrange the purchase, shipping and delivery of these items to your school.
Can our items be from overseas websites?
All items must be from one Australian website.
Can our early learning centre apply?
At this stage the program is available to schools who service children in Prep – Year 3.
What if the books are more traditional story books or early readers (not decodable)?
This program is for decodable readers only because we know they set kids up for the best reading experience possible.
Ready to get started?
Apply now to bring decodable readers to your school or classroom and help open a world of possibility for young learners.