Research reports
National evaluation
This report presents a synthesis of the findings from the multi-faceted evaluation of the former Stronger Families and Communities Strategy 2004-2009. The Strategy was designed to increase the number and quality of child and family services in disadvantaged communities, with the ultimate aim being improved outcomes for children in the early years (0-5 years).
Factors that enhanced the outcomes for families, children and communities are discussed. The report also considers outcomes for the sector, such as service coordination and collaboration, and outcomes for services, such as service capacity and reach.
Using the range of different evidence produced through the National Evaluation, the authors consider what works in early intervention by addressing the key elements for effectiveness in four areas: program/project implementation, data collection and evaluation, funding and timelines and sustainability.
Stronger Families in Australia Study
The Stronger Families in Australia Study evaluated the impact of the Communities for Children initiative, in terms of its impact on children, families and communities.
The study compared families living in areas that had a Communities for Children program with comparable areas that did not have a Communities for Children program. Outcomes in four priority areas were considered: healthy young families, supporting families and parents, early learning and care and child-friendly communities.
This report describes overall effects of the initiative and the extent of these effects. The study also reports upon the effects of the intervention on three groups that are at particular risk for poor child outcomes (‘hard-to-reach’ households, households with low incomes and households with mothers with low education).
Web appendices
Web appendix 1 (PDF 239 KB)
Web appendix 2 (PDF 473 KB)
Web appendix 3 (PDF 517 KB)
Web appendix 4 (PDF 334 KB)Promising Practice Profiles - Final report (PDF 2.1 MB)
The final report provides access to and analysis of profiles of ‘promising’ practice. Each profile draws directly upon the experiences and learnings of service providers working in child and family services within disadvantaged Australian communities.
The report highlights the key ingredients that facilitate the achievement of positive outcomes in service planning and delivery to children and families in disadvantaged communities and provides information on how those key ingredients work, why they work and for whom they work.
The Promising Practice Profile report is a valuable resource for service providers seeking to implement strategies that will enhance outcomes for children and families, especially in disadvantaged communities.
Indigenous families and children: coordination and provision of service
Flaxman, S., Muir, K., & Oprea, I. (2009). Canberra: Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Australia.
Examines service coordination and provision for Indigenous families and children. The report identifies factors that facilitate and hinder service provision and bring about positive outcomes for Indigenous families and children.
Engaging hard-to-reach families and children
Cortis, N., Katz, I., & Patulny, R. (2009). Canberra: Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Australia.
Explores strategies for engaging ‘hard-to-reach’ families and children, considers the challenges of engaging ‘hard-to-reach’ groups and considers additional supports needed to assist services to engage with ‘hard-to-reach’ clients.
Engaging fathers in child and family services: Participation, perceptions and good practice
Berlyn, C., Wise, S., & Soriano, G. (2008). Canberra: Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Australia.
Explores strategies for engaging fathers in child and family services. Barriers that discourage fathers’ participation and practices that encourage fathers’ involvement are investigated.