Problem solving is recognised as an important life skill involving a range of processes including analysing, interpreting, reasoning, predicting, evaluating and reflecting. Developing successful problem solvers is a complex task requiring a range of skills and dispositions. Students need deep mathematical knowledge and general reasoning ability as well as heuristic strategies for solving non-routine problems. It is also necessary to have helpful beliefs and personal attributes for organising and directing their efforts, and students require good communication skills and the ability to work in cooperative groups. As Australia continues the process of developing a national curriculum, it is important to learn from other countries about the best approach for including problem solving in the curriculum and for supporting implementation by teachers.