VACCHO publishes evaluation results on Culture and Kinship Program. Evaluation shows $8.29 Social Return on Investment for every dollar invested. Success factors include self-determination and cultural knowledge integration. Relevant for practitioners seeking effective approaches to supporting Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing.

Improving employment outcomes for young people with disability: Insights from the P2E program trial

Disability, Program Evaluation, Report

This report shares insights from the Brotherhood of St Laurence's trial to support young people with disabilities in mainstream employment pathways. The trial used a place-based approach and Advantaged Thinking, emphasising participants' aspirations and abilities. It highlights program challenges, positive outcomes, and areas for improvement, offering valuable lessons for practitioners.

Intervention programme for fathers who use domestic and family violence: Results from an evaluation of Caring Dads

Family Violence, Journal article, Case Study, Domestic Violence, Program Evaluation, Journal article, Case Study

This article, published in Child & Family Social Work, presents the findings of an evaluation of Caring Dads, a Men’s Behaviour Change Program trialled in two Australian locations. The study had a small sample size (40 fathers and 17 mothers) however findings aligned with previous evaluations of the program. The evaluation found positive improvements for mothers in their self-perceived level of safety, experiences of domestic and family violence, and in respectful communication.

Looked after children’s right to contact with birth parents: An Australian study

Program Evaluation, Family Reunification, Journal article

This study in Child and Family Social Work examines barriers to meaningful contact between children and birth parents, as identified by legal and social work practitioners in Queensland. The study reveals four key themes: system-driven responses, poor relationships and mistrust, lack of culturally responsive practice, and exclusion of parents from the consultation process. The findings provide valuable insights for practitioners working to improve contact arrangements for children and their birth parents.

OPEN Forum: The Menu of Evidence for Children and Family Services

Family Services, Program Evaluation, Webinar

The online forum on March 28, presented by OPEN and the Evidence Strategy team, provided service practitioners with a walkthrough of the Menu of Evidence. It showcased an online repository of evidence-based practices and programs in Child and Family Services, offering valuable insights for service design, practice, and policies. The presentation also emphasised OPEN's role in supporting sector capability in evaluation and research to build local evidence.

Which programs reduce maltreatment and improve safety for vulnerable children?

Child maltreatment, Program Evaluation, Report

The Western Sydney University review of 25 programs on reducing maltreatment of vulnerable children identified effective models and common components, such as flexible engagement, relationship-building, parental capacity development, and strong case management, providing valuable insights for practitioners.

Youth Work Matters Social Return on Investment Study

Young People, Program Evaluation, Collective Impact, Report

This Youth Affairs Council Victoria and Deloitte Access Economics report collaboratively gathered insights into the monetary and social impacts of youth work programs in Victoria. This report strengthens the evidence of the collective impact of youth work programs in Victoria.