What we did

We undertook a mixed-methods outcome program evaluation of investment in asylum seeker services.

A realist evaluation approach was taken to consider contextual factors and to answer the following questions:

1.  To what extent has the program achieved intended medium-term outputs and outcomes?

2.  To what extent is the program contributing to an avoidance of costs, for example though early or preventative interventions?

3.  How could a future program be adapted to further reduce the destitution and vulnerability of people seeking asylum?

How we did it

Flexibility was required to work in partnership with busy community-based organisations, with a focus on maximising gathering program evaluation data, while minimising impact on service delivery.
We utilised an outcome and economic (i.e., cost avoidance) evaluation. Quantitative data included output and outcome data from funding reports, service-based metrics and economic data. Qualitative data included document analysis and open-ended focus groups and interviews with community organisational representatives.

Benefits for the client

Preliminary findings were shared in a sensemaking workshop with the client and service providers for an opportunity to discuss the findings from different perspectives. The client now has an evidence-based understanding of the outputs and outcomes achieved, particularly in light of the increase in support needs caused by the COVID-19 public health restrictions.