Diagnosing dyslexia in Australia


As stated in: How do you treat dyslexia? the purpose of diagnosing dyslexia is in order for the most effective education to be provided for the person with dyslexia.  The indicators of dyslexia listed in: What are the characteristics of dyslexia? are a checklist.  However, the International Dyslexia Association (IDA)  state that 'characteristics' are indicators, not proof of dyslexia and that the only way to verify that an individual is dyslexic is through testing by a qualified examiner or team of professionals.

The Australian Dyslexic Association explain that there is not a single test which can identify dyslexia.  The assessor must have knowledge of:
  • language and reading development
  • how dyslexia affects learning in these areas and the required pedagogy
  • current diagnostic test selection

Stage 1:

If a student is considered at risk of dyslexia the ADA recommends that the student be referred to a certified assessor.  The student will undergo some tests which will indicate the likelihood of dyslexia.  This is often referred to as the screening or pre-screening assessment.  This test alone will not confirm dyslexia but will add to the individual learning profile.

Pre-screening is provided for free to all ADA members.

Stage 2:

A more in-depth assessment is conducted by a certified assessor.  This assessment is diagnostic, in order to assess the student's strengths and weaknesses and identify the underlying cause and subtype. 

This assessment currently has a fee in Australia.

Contact the following websites for more information on how to get an assessment for a student: