Any test administered with the intention of using the results to support some level of accountability is considered high-stakes. High-stakes testing like other assessments can come in a multitude of forms. What distinguishes high-stakes testing from other assessments is its purpose. The results of high-stakes testing often rely on some form of extrinsic motivation, in the form of punishments, accolades, advancement or compensation for those involved. These are “administered on the basis that the promise of reward or the threat of punishment will motivate and incentivise educators to improve school performance, teaching effectiveness, and student achievement.” (The Glossary of Education Reform) The publishing of high-stakes testing results seeks to add further encouragement, by holding schools accountable for their achievement in these assessments. This is seen as a positive step towards closing the equity gap that exists through the Australian education system. Three high-stakes tests that are administered in Australian schools includes, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN), Program for International Students Assessment (PISA), and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). All three of these high-stakes tests will be administered in 2015 in schools in Australia.