These protocols represent a working guide for planning and implementing national sample assessments in connection with the national Key Performance Measures (KPMs). The protocols are intended for agencies involved in planning or conducting national sample assessments and personnel responsible for administering associated tenders or contracts, including the: (1) Performance Measurement and Reporting Taskforce (PMRT) and its subgroups; (2) Benchmarking and Educational Measurement Unit (BEMU); (3) PMRT Secretariat; (4) assessment contractors; and (5) assessment liaison personnel for schooling sectors in the states and territories. The protocols in this document refer to national sample assessments conducted in a three-year cycle in: (1) science literacy (samples of Year 6 students); (2) civics and citizenship (samples of Year 6 and Year 10 students); and (3) information and communication technology (ICT) literacy (samples of Year 6 and Year 10 students). The protocols for the national sample assessments are presented under four major headings: (1) Management, Liaison and Communication; (2) Development and Conduct of Assessments; (3) Reporting; and (4) Data Storage and Access.