Development of a framework for the evaluation of policies, programs and services that aim to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health and wellbeing

Project Details

There continues to be significant gaps in the evidence base for improving outcomes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, underpinning the consistent call for rigorous information to inform the design and development of new approaches.  This need is further highlighted by the fact that much of the information we currently have regarding effective development and implementation is based on data obtained from rigorous, high-quality evaluation.

Effective evaluation allows for identification and/or avoidance of unintended harmful outcomes of policy, program and service implementation, thus increasing overall benefit to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.  Well-executed evaluation also increases the efficiency and effectiveness of existing resources by signalling which initiatives are more or less likely to be beneficial, particularly relevant given the lack of resources that often characterises the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector.

This research aims to develop a framework for the evaluation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health policies, programs and services that is oriented towards health equity, engagement of local stakeholders, increasing community benefit, capacity-building and research partnerships.  A coherent framework for the evaluation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health initiatives will improve the evidence needed for appropriate and effective policies and programs at local, state and national levels and lead to policies and programs that provide increased community benefit.

Researchers

Prof Margaret Kelaher

Prof Shaun Ewen

A/Prof Yin Paradies

Ms Angeline Ferdinand

Research Group


School Research Themes

Disparities, disadvantage and effective health care



Key Contact

For further information about this research, please contact the research group leader.

Department / Centre

Centre for Health Policy

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