'I am ready' partnership : program evaluation report 1 February 2019-30 June 2020
- Porter, Joanne, Barbagallo, Michael, Bur, Jennifer, James, Michaelle, Prokopiv, Val, Federation University. Gippsland Collaborative Evaluation Unit
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Bur, Jennifer , James, Michaelle , Prokopiv, Val , Federation University. Gippsland Collaborative Evaluation Unit
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The ‘I Am Ready’ Program was an innovative approach to engaging secondary school students with learning barriers, to think, plan and actively move towards employment and or further education and training. This summary has been divided into five sections which demonstrates the triangulation of the evaluation findings, highlights the key findings and includes; Reach of the program, Lessons learnt, Breaking down barriers, Building confidence and Bright future for participants and the Program.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Bur, Jennifer , James, Michaelle , Prokopiv, Val , Federation University. Gippsland Collaborative Evaluation Unit
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The ‘I Am Ready’ Program was an innovative approach to engaging secondary school students with learning barriers, to think, plan and actively move towards employment and or further education and training. This summary has been divided into five sections which demonstrates the triangulation of the evaluation findings, highlights the key findings and includes; Reach of the program, Lessons learnt, Breaking down barriers, Building confidence and Bright future for participants and the Program.
Adolescents Building Connections (ABC) program evaluation 2022
- Porter, Joanne, Prokopiv, Valerie, Peck, Blake, Bailey, Carolyn, Forooshani, Habib
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Prokopiv, Valerie , Peck, Blake , Bailey, Carolyn , Forooshani, Habib
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) has evaluated the Quantum Support Services ABC program that provids tools and strategies to help young people understand the impact of their behaviours and encourage positive growth and maintenance of healthy relationships.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Prokopiv, Valerie , Peck, Blake , Bailey, Carolyn , Forooshani, Habib
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) has evaluated the Quantum Support Services ABC program that provids tools and strategies to help young people understand the impact of their behaviours and encourage positive growth and maintenance of healthy relationships.
Ageism and age discrimination in the labour market and employer responses
- Authors: Taylor, Philip
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Relation: Older workers: Research readings. p. 46-63
- Full Text:
- Description: Technical report
- Description: This paper reviews what is known about employer attitudes, policies and practices in relation to the employment and retention of older workers. Age discrimination appears to play an important role in the labour market. Older and younger workers may be prevented from working entirely, or from progressing at work because of age-discriminatory policies and practices. These may be based on ageist attitudes and assumptions about an individual’s motivation, experience, abilities, skills or knowledge. Other influences can be transmitted via human resource management policies, company ethos and marketing.
- Description: 2014100138
- Authors: Taylor, Philip
- Date: 2011
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Relation: Older workers: Research readings. p. 46-63
- Full Text:
- Description: Technical report
- Description: This paper reviews what is known about employer attitudes, policies and practices in relation to the employment and retention of older workers. Age discrimination appears to play an important role in the labour market. Older and younger workers may be prevented from working entirely, or from progressing at work because of age-discriminatory policies and practices. These may be based on ageist attitudes and assumptions about an individual’s motivation, experience, abilities, skills or knowledge. Other influences can be transmitted via human resource management policies, company ethos and marketing.
- Description: 2014100138
Building healthy and resilient communities through service equity project evaluation : June 2022
- Porter, Joanne, Jackson, Megan, Cruz, Naomi, Prokopiv, Valerie
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Jackson, Megan , Cruz, Naomi , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: Working in partnership with the Deddick Valley Isolated Community Group and in collaboration with the Errinundra to Snowy Community Recovery Committee, CERC (formally CERG) evaluated and validated existing data and new information in support of an appropriate health service model for the Errinundra to Snowy District of Far East Gippsland.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Jackson, Megan , Cruz, Naomi , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: Working in partnership with the Deddick Valley Isolated Community Group and in collaboration with the Errinundra to Snowy Community Recovery Committee, CERC (formally CERG) evaluated and validated existing data and new information in support of an appropriate health service model for the Errinundra to Snowy District of Far East Gippsland.
Building the capacity to innovate: The role of human capital
- Smith, Andy, Courvisanos, Jerry, Tuck, Jacqueline, McEachern, Steven
- Authors: Smith, Andy , Courvisanos, Jerry , Tuck, Jacqueline , McEachern, Steven
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Authors: Smith, Andy , Courvisanos, Jerry , Tuck, Jacqueline , McEachern, Steven
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
Community playgroups : Connecting rural families locally pilot project
- McLean, Karen, Edwards, Susan, Morris, Heather, Hallowell, Leanne, Swinkels, Kathy
- Authors: McLean, Karen , Edwards, Susan , Morris, Heather , Hallowell, Leanne , Swinkels, Kathy
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: This project focuses on the role of Playgroup Development Consultants in connecting rural families to community playgroups. The aim of this project is twofold: 1) To identify the connections Playgroup Development Consultants establish in local rural communities in terms of support from local venues and key early years services, including Maternal and Child Health, local council and kindergarten services for promoting community playgroups to families; and 2) To review existing strategies associated with promoting and increasing community playgroup participation in rural communities, and to suggest innovative alternatives for continued participation by families.
- Authors: McLean, Karen , Edwards, Susan , Morris, Heather , Hallowell, Leanne , Swinkels, Kathy
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: This project focuses on the role of Playgroup Development Consultants in connecting rural families to community playgroups. The aim of this project is twofold: 1) To identify the connections Playgroup Development Consultants establish in local rural communities in terms of support from local venues and key early years services, including Maternal and Child Health, local council and kindergarten services for promoting community playgroups to families; and 2) To review existing strategies associated with promoting and increasing community playgroup participation in rural communities, and to suggest innovative alternatives for continued participation by families.
Cyan Moon crew preparation for the Sydney To Hobart Yacht Race March 2023
- Porter, Joanne, Simic, Megan, Talpey, Scott, Fenton, Sam, Casey, Meghan, McNeal, Dominic, Statham, Dixie, Prokopiv, Valerie, Miller, Libby
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Talpey, Scott , Fenton, Sam , Casey, Meghan , McNeal, Dominic , Statham, Dixie , Prokopiv, Valerie , Miller, Libby
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Collaborative Evaluation & Research Centre (formally CERG) evaluated the crew’s experiences pre and post yacht events using a mixed methods approach. The Cyan yacht had a crew of 12 and competed in a number of events in the racing calendar leading up to the Sydney to Hobart race in January 2023. This was the first time that this boat and many of the crew competed in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Talpey, Scott , Fenton, Sam , Casey, Meghan , McNeal, Dominic , Statham, Dixie , Prokopiv, Valerie , Miller, Libby
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Collaborative Evaluation & Research Centre (formally CERG) evaluated the crew’s experiences pre and post yacht events using a mixed methods approach. The Cyan yacht had a crew of 12 and competed in a number of events in the racing calendar leading up to the Sydney to Hobart race in January 2023. This was the first time that this boat and many of the crew competed in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.
Developing a regional resilience monitor
- Lawton, Alan, Valenzuela, Ernesto, Duffy, Michelle, Morgan, Damian, Joiner, Therese
- Authors: Lawton, Alan , Valenzuela, Ernesto , Duffy, Michelle , Morgan, Damian , Joiner, Therese
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Technical report , Research Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This study develops a Regional Resilience Monitor (RRM) which will enable the measurement of changes over time in a number of key dimensions for the well-being of regional Australia. Resilience is defined as the capacity of a local community to respond to, and anticipate economic, social and environmental change and to adapt, plan and transform itself for the future. Regional Resilience – in terms of health and well-being, productivity and economic growth, managing risk, and capturing opportunities for sustainable environments and human systems – has been identified as a key strategic priority for Australia, as it has been for a number of other countries. The RRM is made up of six interlocking elements that, together, form a holistic tool and provide a composite measure. These elements are: 1. Economic Health 2. Human Capital 3. Social Well-being 4. Liveability 5. Entrepreneurialism 6. Social Capital and Social Networks The first four elements can be measured using existing data and we identify those data sources. Elements 5 and 6 can be measured using a combination of existing data and, respectively, a newly developed regional entrepreneurship survey and a newly conceived social network analysis. The RRM was developed in, and for, the Latrobe Valley and the wider Gippsland region but can be ‘rolled out’ across regional Victoria as a whole and across regional Australia.
- Authors: Lawton, Alan , Valenzuela, Ernesto , Duffy, Michelle , Morgan, Damian , Joiner, Therese
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Technical report , Research Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This study develops a Regional Resilience Monitor (RRM) which will enable the measurement of changes over time in a number of key dimensions for the well-being of regional Australia. Resilience is defined as the capacity of a local community to respond to, and anticipate economic, social and environmental change and to adapt, plan and transform itself for the future. Regional Resilience – in terms of health and well-being, productivity and economic growth, managing risk, and capturing opportunities for sustainable environments and human systems – has been identified as a key strategic priority for Australia, as it has been for a number of other countries. The RRM is made up of six interlocking elements that, together, form a holistic tool and provide a composite measure. These elements are: 1. Economic Health 2. Human Capital 3. Social Well-being 4. Liveability 5. Entrepreneurialism 6. Social Capital and Social Networks The first four elements can be measured using existing data and we identify those data sources. Elements 5 and 6 can be measured using a combination of existing data and, respectively, a newly developed regional entrepreneurship survey and a newly conceived social network analysis. The RRM was developed in, and for, the Latrobe Valley and the wider Gippsland region but can be ‘rolled out’ across regional Victoria as a whole and across regional Australia.
Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds : Practical advice for institutional policy makers and leaders
- Devlin, Marcia, Kift, Sally, Nelson, Karen, Smith, Liz, McKay, Jade
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-32
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
This resource has been developed as part of a national research project, Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds: Resources for Australian higher education
. This guide provides practical advice about the teaching characteristics and strategies that contribute to the success of students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) and about the ways in which student agency may be enabled. This raises the question of how to identify LSES students. While it is necessary to identify students from LSES backgrounds at a policy level, and perhaps for measuring performance and allocating funds, it is very difficult, and potentially undesirable, to target students from LSES backgrounds individually for teaching and learning or support purposes. Good practice in teaching and supporting LSES students benefits all students. This guide has been prepared with this in mind. This guide is not intended as a manual for teaching LSES students, nor is it prescriptive about how the advice it offers might be implemented. Instead, it offers general, practical advice that has emerged from relevant literature in the field, 26 interviews with academic and professional staff in six universities experienced in the effective teaching and support of LSES students, and 89 interviews with successful LSES students in three universities about what helped them succeed. The guide draws on the voices of staff and students and through sharing their views offers broad advice in five areas of teaching that may be of assistance to busy teaching staff. We recommend considering the advice and suggestions in this guide within the context of your discipline and workload.
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-32
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
This resource has been developed as part of a national research project, Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds: Resources for Australian higher education
. This guide provides practical advice about the teaching characteristics and strategies that contribute to the success of students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) and about the ways in which student agency may be enabled. This raises the question of how to identify LSES students. While it is necessary to identify students from LSES backgrounds at a policy level, and perhaps for measuring performance and allocating funds, it is very difficult, and potentially undesirable, to target students from LSES backgrounds individually for teaching and learning or support purposes. Good practice in teaching and supporting LSES students benefits all students. This guide has been prepared with this in mind. This guide is not intended as a manual for teaching LSES students, nor is it prescriptive about how the advice it offers might be implemented. Instead, it offers general, practical advice that has emerged from relevant literature in the field, 26 interviews with academic and professional staff in six universities experienced in the effective teaching and support of LSES students, and 89 interviews with successful LSES students in three universities about what helped them succeed. The guide draws on the voices of staff and students and through sharing their views offers broad advice in five areas of teaching that may be of assistance to busy teaching staff. We recommend considering the advice and suggestions in this guide within the context of your discipline and workload.
Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds : Practical advice for teaching staff
- Devlin, Marcia, Kift, Sally, Nelson, Karen, Smith, Liz, McKay, Jade
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-32
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
This resource has been developed as part of a national research project, Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds: Resources for Australian higher education
. This guide provides practical advice about the teaching characteristics and strategies that contribute to the success of students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) and about the ways in which student agency may be enabled. This guide is not intended as a manual for teaching students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, nor does it prescribe how the advice it offers might be implemented. Instead, it offers general, practical advice that has emerged from relevant literature in the field, 26 interviews with academic and professional staff in six universities experienced in the effective teaching and support of LSES students, and 89 interviews with successful LSES students in three universities about what helped them succeed. The guide draws on the voices of staff and students and, through sharing their views, offers broad advice in six areas of teaching that may assist busy teaching staff. We recommend considering the advice and suggestions in this guide within the context of your professional life, discipline and workload.
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-32
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
This resource has been developed as part of a national research project, Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds: Resources for Australian higher education
. This guide provides practical advice about the teaching characteristics and strategies that contribute to the success of students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) and about the ways in which student agency may be enabled. This guide is not intended as a manual for teaching students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, nor does it prescribe how the advice it offers might be implemented. Instead, it offers general, practical advice that has emerged from relevant literature in the field, 26 interviews with academic and professional staff in six universities experienced in the effective teaching and support of LSES students, and 89 interviews with successful LSES students in three universities about what helped them succeed. The guide draws on the voices of staff and students and, through sharing their views, offers broad advice in six areas of teaching that may assist busy teaching staff. We recommend considering the advice and suggestions in this guide within the context of your professional life, discipline and workload.
Effective teaching and support of students from low socioeconomic status backgrounds : Resources for Australian higher education
- Devlin, Marcia, Kift, Sally, Nelson, Karen, Smith, Liz, McKay, Jade
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-104
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
The project found that the sociocultural incongruity that exists between students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) backgrounds and the institutions in which they study can be bridged through the provision of an empathic institutional context that: - values and respects all students - encompasses an institution-wide approach that is comprehensive, integrated and coordinated through the curriculum - incorporates inclusive learning environments and strategies - empowers students by making the implicit, explicit, and - focuses on student learning outcomes and success. These characteristics were derived through the project’s literature analysis and are supported by the evidence from interviews with 26 experienced staff and 89 successful LSES students conducted as part of this project. Synthesis and analysis of the interview data revealed four key themes to which institutions and staff need to attend to ensure the effective teaching and support of LSES students. The study found that the empathic institutional context: 1. employs inclusive teaching characteristics and strategies 2. enables student agency 3. facilitates life and learning support, and 4. takes into account students’ financial challenges. The project has generated a new integrated national resource, comprising five interrelated sets of materials and exemplars, all of which have been made available to the sector via the project website
1. a conceptual framework relevant to the Australian context 2. advice for policy makers and teaching and learning leaders 3. practical guidelines for academic staff 4. materials to support professional development, and 5. a repository of effective policy, programs and practice.
- Authors: Devlin, Marcia , Kift, Sally , Nelson, Karen , Smith, Liz , McKay, Jade
- Date: 2012
- Type: Text , Journal article , Technical report
- Relation: Vol. , no. (2012), p. 1-104
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
The project found that the sociocultural incongruity that exists between students from low socioeconomic status (LSES) backgrounds and the institutions in which they study can be bridged through the provision of an empathic institutional context that: - values and respects all students - encompasses an institution-wide approach that is comprehensive, integrated and coordinated through the curriculum - incorporates inclusive learning environments and strategies - empowers students by making the implicit, explicit, and - focuses on student learning outcomes and success. These characteristics were derived through the project’s literature analysis and are supported by the evidence from interviews with 26 experienced staff and 89 successful LSES students conducted as part of this project. Synthesis and analysis of the interview data revealed four key themes to which institutions and staff need to attend to ensure the effective teaching and support of LSES students. The study found that the empathic institutional context: 1. employs inclusive teaching characteristics and strategies 2. enables student agency 3. facilitates life and learning support, and 4. takes into account students’ financial challenges. The project has generated a new integrated national resource, comprising five interrelated sets of materials and exemplars, all of which have been made available to the sector via the project website
1. a conceptual framework relevant to the Australian context 2. advice for policy makers and teaching and learning leaders 3. practical guidelines for academic staff 4. materials to support professional development, and 5. a repository of effective policy, programs and practice.
Enterprise registered training organisations : research project funded by Australian Research Council and ERTOA : final report : executive summary
- Smith, Erica, Smith, Andy, Walker, Arlene
- Authors: Smith, Erica , Smith, Andy , Walker, Arlene
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This is an overview of a national research project which set out to evaluate the benefits, challenges and outcomes for all stakeholders of the delivery of vocational education and training (VET) qualifications by Enterprise RTOs (ERTOs). The project had three main research questions: • What are the benefits and challenges for companies associated with training through their own ERTO? • What are the benefits and challenges for workers associated with ERTOs? • What is the equivalence of workplace-delivered qualifications among companies and with qualifications delivered in educational institutions? The project aimed to be of benefit at several levels as described below: • For workers, the research set out to examine whether the availability of qualifications through ERTOs offers the chance of a high-quality qualification and improved career prospects and life chances. • For companies, the research hoped to provide firm evidence about the outcomes for their workers and quality features of their training compared with other companies and with institutional-based qualifications. • For industries and for Australia, the research set out to build an evidence base about the efficacy of this type of training, to assist in the shaping of government policy.
- Authors: Smith, Erica , Smith, Andy , Walker, Arlene
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This is an overview of a national research project which set out to evaluate the benefits, challenges and outcomes for all stakeholders of the delivery of vocational education and training (VET) qualifications by Enterprise RTOs (ERTOs). The project had three main research questions: • What are the benefits and challenges for companies associated with training through their own ERTO? • What are the benefits and challenges for workers associated with ERTOs? • What is the equivalence of workplace-delivered qualifications among companies and with qualifications delivered in educational institutions? The project aimed to be of benefit at several levels as described below: • For workers, the research set out to examine whether the availability of qualifications through ERTOs offers the chance of a high-quality qualification and improved career prospects and life chances. • For companies, the research hoped to provide firm evidence about the outcomes for their workers and quality features of their training compared with other companies and with institutional-based qualifications. • For industries and for Australia, the research set out to build an evidence base about the efficacy of this type of training, to assist in the shaping of government policy.
Examining the experiences of intercultural ambassadors in regional Victoria from 2019 to 2021
- Cooper, Kimberlea, Patil, Tejaswini, Ottmann, Goetz, Williams, Dominic, Mummery, Jane
- Authors: Cooper, Kimberlea , Patil, Tejaswini , Ottmann, Goetz , Williams, Dominic , Mummery, Jane
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Authors: Cooper, Kimberlea , Patil, Tejaswini , Ottmann, Goetz , Williams, Dominic , Mummery, Jane
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
Exploring lived experiences of participants in the Intercultural Employment Pathways (IEP) program from 2019 to 2022
- Cooper, Kimberlea, Patil, Tejaswini, Ottmann, Goetz, Williams, Dominic, Mummery, Jane
- Authors: Cooper, Kimberlea , Patil, Tejaswini , Ottmann, Goetz , Williams, Dominic , Mummery, Jane
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: This report documents research conducted by Federation University in relation to the City of Ballarat Intercultural Employment Pathways (IEP) program from 2019 - 2022. The IEP program aims to enhance social inclusion, employment, and education pathways for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) migrants in the Ballarat region. The purpose of the research was to explore the lived experiences of migrants who participated in the IEP program to better understand the strengths of the program and propose recommendations for its future. The research was a qualitative study that used a survey, interviews, and a focus group to explore the perspectives of IEP participants and encourage them to share deep and rich accounts of their lived experiences. Overall, 39 migrants involved with the IEP program participated in the research. The findings are grouped into four themes: Connection: The communal nature of the IEP program enabled participants to establish social and professional connections which increased their networking capacity to find gainful employment. Participants valued the networking opportunities created by the IEP program as many felt as though they were ‘starting again’ after migrating to Australia. Culture: The IEP program assisted participants to adapt to Australian norms of job-hunting and workplace culture and to learn practical strategies to utilise in their job application and interview techniques. The IEP program created a broader platform for cultural exchange within the community and can contribute to wider changes in representation and appreciation of diversity. Confidence: The IEP program assisted participants to improve their levels of confidence and feelings of self-worth. The tailored support that is available to each participant enabled them to develop confidence in their abilities and focus upon their strengths. Context: Participants shared experiences of the many challenges and barriers they have faced when looking for meaningful and secure employment in Australia. Understanding these wider experiences provide the context in which the IEP program operates and emphasises its importance in providing valuable assistance to migrants settling in the City of Ballarat.
- Authors: Cooper, Kimberlea , Patil, Tejaswini , Ottmann, Goetz , Williams, Dominic , Mummery, Jane
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: This report documents research conducted by Federation University in relation to the City of Ballarat Intercultural Employment Pathways (IEP) program from 2019 - 2022. The IEP program aims to enhance social inclusion, employment, and education pathways for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) migrants in the Ballarat region. The purpose of the research was to explore the lived experiences of migrants who participated in the IEP program to better understand the strengths of the program and propose recommendations for its future. The research was a qualitative study that used a survey, interviews, and a focus group to explore the perspectives of IEP participants and encourage them to share deep and rich accounts of their lived experiences. Overall, 39 migrants involved with the IEP program participated in the research. The findings are grouped into four themes: Connection: The communal nature of the IEP program enabled participants to establish social and professional connections which increased their networking capacity to find gainful employment. Participants valued the networking opportunities created by the IEP program as many felt as though they were ‘starting again’ after migrating to Australia. Culture: The IEP program assisted participants to adapt to Australian norms of job-hunting and workplace culture and to learn practical strategies to utilise in their job application and interview techniques. The IEP program created a broader platform for cultural exchange within the community and can contribute to wider changes in representation and appreciation of diversity. Confidence: The IEP program assisted participants to improve their levels of confidence and feelings of self-worth. The tailored support that is available to each participant enabled them to develop confidence in their abilities and focus upon their strengths. Context: Participants shared experiences of the many challenges and barriers they have faced when looking for meaningful and secure employment in Australia. Understanding these wider experiences provide the context in which the IEP program operates and emphasises its importance in providing valuable assistance to migrants settling in the City of Ballarat.
Exploring the lived experiences of migrants in regional Victoria, Australia
- Patil, Tejawswimi, Mummery, Jane, Pedersen, Cassie, Camilleri, Marg
- Authors: Patil, Tejawswimi , Mummery, Jane , Pedersen, Cassie , Camilleri, Marg
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This research project has been undertaken by Federation University Australia and was commissioned by the EVOLVE Strategic Multicultural Capacity Building Partnership. The purpose of this research was to examine the lived experiences of migrants living and/or working in the areas of Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill from 2009 to 2018 in accordance with the nine key priority areas set out in the Department of Social Services National Settlement Framework (2016). These include language services; employment; education and training; housing; health and wellbeing; transport; civic participation; family and social support; and justice. The research analysed the lived experiences of migrants to identify key benefits and barriers to settlement within Central and Western Victoria, and will be used to enhance service provision available to migrants in Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill. The research has utilised interpretative phenomenology, which is a qualitative methodology that draws on participants’ multilayered descriptions of their lived experiences. In accordance with this methodological framework, nine individual interviews were conducted in Ballarat as well as two focus groups that consisted of one group of women and one group of men. In Horsham, four individual interviews were conducted in addition to one focus group. In Nhill, the research team conducted five individual interviews and one focus group. Participants were presented with a range of open-ended questions concerning their settlement experiences across Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill.
- Authors: Patil, Tejawswimi , Mummery, Jane , Pedersen, Cassie , Camilleri, Marg
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: This research project has been undertaken by Federation University Australia and was commissioned by the EVOLVE Strategic Multicultural Capacity Building Partnership. The purpose of this research was to examine the lived experiences of migrants living and/or working in the areas of Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill from 2009 to 2018 in accordance with the nine key priority areas set out in the Department of Social Services National Settlement Framework (2016). These include language services; employment; education and training; housing; health and wellbeing; transport; civic participation; family and social support; and justice. The research analysed the lived experiences of migrants to identify key benefits and barriers to settlement within Central and Western Victoria, and will be used to enhance service provision available to migrants in Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill. The research has utilised interpretative phenomenology, which is a qualitative methodology that draws on participants’ multilayered descriptions of their lived experiences. In accordance with this methodological framework, nine individual interviews were conducted in Ballarat as well as two focus groups that consisted of one group of women and one group of men. In Horsham, four individual interviews were conducted in addition to one focus group. In Nhill, the research team conducted five individual interviews and one focus group. Participants were presented with a range of open-ended questions concerning their settlement experiences across Ballarat, Horsham, and Nhill.
Food security and wellbeing project evaluation 2022-2023
- Porter, Joanne, Simic, Megan, Miller, Elizabeth, Bransgrove, Natalie, Barbagallo, Michael, Peck, Blake, Unsworth, Carolyn, Hewitt, Alana, Soldatenko, Daria, Hualda, Luis, My, Sambath, Prokopiv, Valerie
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Miller, Elizabeth , Bransgrove, Natalie , Barbagallo, Michael , Peck, Blake , Unsworth, Carolyn , Hewitt, Alana , Soldatenko, Daria , Hualda, Luis , My, Sambath , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: Although the country is transitioning out of COVID-19 lockdowns and easing restrictions, Australians are now facing increased costs of living. Global political unrest, interest rate rises, and inflation have seen the prices of fuel, food and household bills surge, increasing the strain on individuals and families. Fruit and vegetables have seen cost increases by almost 7% from last year, with this figure only estimated to rise. During the same period, however, takeaway food prices increased marginally by 0.7%, potentially due to government subsidy and voucher systems introduced post COVID-19 lockdowns. The strain of food prices is felt even more greatly by those living in regional, rural and remote Australia, with prices increasing due to freight costs. The Morwell Neighbourhood House (MNH) Food Bank provides emergency relief without requiring an appointment and is unrestricted by postcode or healthcare card status. The Food Bank is supported by St Vinnies Morwell, which provides $12,000 annually towards the cost of food, and by numerous community organisations, individuals and businesses. Demand for the Food Bank has increased steadily and particularly so during the COVID-19 pandemic. The immediate precursor to the People’s Kitchen was a 2019 project named Cooking for a Purpose. That involved GippsTAFE VCAL students preparing nutritious frozen meals using ingredients provided by MNH. The availability of frozen home-cooked meals has ensured that Food Bank clients have at least one nutritious hot meal per day. The CERC was commissioned to explore the activities of the MNH, gaining an insight into how the whole of person approach to food security was being implemented. This understanding was gained through the perspective of those who were paid employees, Volunteers or accessed the MNH services, outlining the benefits, barriers and future suggestions for the MNH operations when addressing food security in the Latrobe Valley. Data were collected between 2022 - 2023 using a mixed methods approach to understand the impact of the MNH services on participants. Participants included MNH stakeholders, staff, Volunteers, secondary school students and people who accessed the MNH services. In addition to this, a comprehensive literature review was performed to understand the global landscape of food insecurity, exploring how people access Food Banks, the opportunities that arise from engaging with food security service activities and the perspectives of employees who ran these services.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Miller, Elizabeth , Bransgrove, Natalie , Barbagallo, Michael , Peck, Blake , Unsworth, Carolyn , Hewitt, Alana , Soldatenko, Daria , Hualda, Luis , My, Sambath , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: Although the country is transitioning out of COVID-19 lockdowns and easing restrictions, Australians are now facing increased costs of living. Global political unrest, interest rate rises, and inflation have seen the prices of fuel, food and household bills surge, increasing the strain on individuals and families. Fruit and vegetables have seen cost increases by almost 7% from last year, with this figure only estimated to rise. During the same period, however, takeaway food prices increased marginally by 0.7%, potentially due to government subsidy and voucher systems introduced post COVID-19 lockdowns. The strain of food prices is felt even more greatly by those living in regional, rural and remote Australia, with prices increasing due to freight costs. The Morwell Neighbourhood House (MNH) Food Bank provides emergency relief without requiring an appointment and is unrestricted by postcode or healthcare card status. The Food Bank is supported by St Vinnies Morwell, which provides $12,000 annually towards the cost of food, and by numerous community organisations, individuals and businesses. Demand for the Food Bank has increased steadily and particularly so during the COVID-19 pandemic. The immediate precursor to the People’s Kitchen was a 2019 project named Cooking for a Purpose. That involved GippsTAFE VCAL students preparing nutritious frozen meals using ingredients provided by MNH. The availability of frozen home-cooked meals has ensured that Food Bank clients have at least one nutritious hot meal per day. The CERC was commissioned to explore the activities of the MNH, gaining an insight into how the whole of person approach to food security was being implemented. This understanding was gained through the perspective of those who were paid employees, Volunteers or accessed the MNH services, outlining the benefits, barriers and future suggestions for the MNH operations when addressing food security in the Latrobe Valley. Data were collected between 2022 - 2023 using a mixed methods approach to understand the impact of the MNH services on participants. Participants included MNH stakeholders, staff, Volunteers, secondary school students and people who accessed the MNH services. In addition to this, a comprehensive literature review was performed to understand the global landscape of food insecurity, exploring how people access Food Banks, the opportunities that arise from engaging with food security service activities and the perspectives of employees who ran these services.
FRRR health & wellness program Yinnar & District Memorial Hall Committee evaluation report
- Porter, Joanne, Barbagallo, Michael, Dabkowski, Elissa, Prokopiv, Val, Federation University. Collaboration Evaluation Unit.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prokopiv, Val , Federation University. Collaboration Evaluation Unit.
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The primary focus of the Yinnar Health and Wellness Program is to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults in the Gippsland region by removing barriers to participation in facilitated health and wellbeing activities. This report provides analysis and evaluation of the impact of the Program using the CEU Participatory Evaluation Framework for the period February – December 2019. Working in collaboration with key stakeholders, a mixed methods approach was taken and included the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. A literature review was also completed. Results of the data show that the Program successfully delivered weekly classes for a period of twelve months to a consistent number of participants with some significant positive outcomes. The Program was adaptive in design so that it met the individual needs of each participant. Participants reported improvements in their physical health and in their confidence. Results also showed that the Program had a positive impact on the social connectiveness of participants. In confirmation of the literature that was analysed the Program has shown that regular exercise classes have a positive physical, social, and psychological impact on individuals. Although the majority of the participants lived in Yinnar, there were a number of regulars that travelled to attend the program from neighbouring communities. There was a direct impact to the participant’s health with many individuals stating that their overall health, function and movement had improved because of attending the program. A total of 23 out of 24 participants agreed or strongly agreed that the Program had improved their fitness levels and overall confidence. Participants stated that the Program addressed a gap in the service delivery for the region. Not only did the Program improve recovery from illness it helped to maintain overall fitness levels of the participants which ultimately may lead to fewer hospital admissions. It also addressed the need for organised social connection activities for the aging population. The participants agreed that the Program met the needs of the community and the individuals, providing significant physical, mental and social benefits from regular attendance.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prokopiv, Val , Federation University. Collaboration Evaluation Unit.
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The primary focus of the Yinnar Health and Wellness Program is to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults in the Gippsland region by removing barriers to participation in facilitated health and wellbeing activities. This report provides analysis and evaluation of the impact of the Program using the CEU Participatory Evaluation Framework for the period February – December 2019. Working in collaboration with key stakeholders, a mixed methods approach was taken and included the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. A literature review was also completed. Results of the data show that the Program successfully delivered weekly classes for a period of twelve months to a consistent number of participants with some significant positive outcomes. The Program was adaptive in design so that it met the individual needs of each participant. Participants reported improvements in their physical health and in their confidence. Results also showed that the Program had a positive impact on the social connectiveness of participants. In confirmation of the literature that was analysed the Program has shown that regular exercise classes have a positive physical, social, and psychological impact on individuals. Although the majority of the participants lived in Yinnar, there were a number of regulars that travelled to attend the program from neighbouring communities. There was a direct impact to the participant’s health with many individuals stating that their overall health, function and movement had improved because of attending the program. A total of 23 out of 24 participants agreed or strongly agreed that the Program had improved their fitness levels and overall confidence. Participants stated that the Program addressed a gap in the service delivery for the region. Not only did the Program improve recovery from illness it helped to maintain overall fitness levels of the participants which ultimately may lead to fewer hospital admissions. It also addressed the need for organised social connection activities for the aging population. The participants agreed that the Program met the needs of the community and the individuals, providing significant physical, mental and social benefits from regular attendance.
ILO survey report on the National Initiatives to Promote Quality Apprenticeships in G20 Countries
- Smith, Erica, Tuck, Jacqueline
- Authors: Smith, Erica , Tuck, Jacqueline
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: While the level of educational attainment has been rising globally in the past decades, in many countries education and training systems struggle with adapting to rapidly changing skill needs in the fast evolving labour market. The resulting skills mismatch exerts upward pressure on youth unemployment rates with young people opting for jobs that do not match their qualifications which in turn limits their salary and progression prospects. At the same time, businesses, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises, face critical skills shortages as they seek to expand. Unemployment affects youth almost three times more than adults. As such, it is crucial to implement measures to improve the employability of young people. It is in this context that the International Labour Office (ILO), with the support of the JPMorgan Chase Foundation, launched the Skills that Work Project: Improving the Employability of Low and Middle-Skilled Workers in February 2017. The project aims to promote quality apprenticeships as an effective means to provide young people from diverse backgrounds with labour market relevant skills, and exposure to the work environment and a smoother transition into employment. Quality apprenticeships are known to facilitate the school-to-work transition of youth as they offer employer-led skills development opportunities that lead to nationally recognised qualifications. As a result, policymakers increasingly rely on apprenticeships to address skills mismatch and youth unemployment. In fact, the G20, L20 and B20 have committed to promote apprenticeships. In this light, we believe it is timely and helpful to take stock of good national initiatives to improve apprenticeships and make the knowledge widely available as part of our continuous efforts to support evidence-based policymaking. The project also provides support to the design and implementation of quality apprenticeship programmes by providing a concise set of key information and practical tools. It is our hope that this report contributes to the promotion of quality apprenticeships by facilitating policy discussions and enhancing our knowledge base of various initiatives that have been tested in the G20 Member States.
- Authors: Smith, Erica , Tuck, Jacqueline
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: While the level of educational attainment has been rising globally in the past decades, in many countries education and training systems struggle with adapting to rapidly changing skill needs in the fast evolving labour market. The resulting skills mismatch exerts upward pressure on youth unemployment rates with young people opting for jobs that do not match their qualifications which in turn limits their salary and progression prospects. At the same time, businesses, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises, face critical skills shortages as they seek to expand. Unemployment affects youth almost three times more than adults. As such, it is crucial to implement measures to improve the employability of young people. It is in this context that the International Labour Office (ILO), with the support of the JPMorgan Chase Foundation, launched the Skills that Work Project: Improving the Employability of Low and Middle-Skilled Workers in February 2017. The project aims to promote quality apprenticeships as an effective means to provide young people from diverse backgrounds with labour market relevant skills, and exposure to the work environment and a smoother transition into employment. Quality apprenticeships are known to facilitate the school-to-work transition of youth as they offer employer-led skills development opportunities that lead to nationally recognised qualifications. As a result, policymakers increasingly rely on apprenticeships to address skills mismatch and youth unemployment. In fact, the G20, L20 and B20 have committed to promote apprenticeships. In this light, we believe it is timely and helpful to take stock of good national initiatives to improve apprenticeships and make the knowledge widely available as part of our continuous efforts to support evidence-based policymaking. The project also provides support to the design and implementation of quality apprenticeship programmes by providing a concise set of key information and practical tools. It is our hope that this report contributes to the promotion of quality apprenticeships by facilitating policy discussions and enhancing our knowledge base of various initiatives that have been tested in the G20 Member States.
Latrobe City Council Community Engagement Survey 2021 Analysis
- Porter, Joanne, Barbagallo, Michael, Reimers, Vaughan, Prokopiv, Valerie, James, Michelle, Dabkowski, Elissa, Prezioso, Michelle, Federation University. Collaborative Evaluation Unit (CEU)
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Reimers, Vaughan , Prokopiv, Valerie , James, Michelle , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prezioso, Michelle , Federation University. Collaborative Evaluation Unit (CEU)
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: As part of Latrobe City’s community engagement strategy, a survey was developed and distributed during May to June 2021, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data to capture feedback and suggestions on how Latrobe City could be a better place to live, work, visit and play. The survey also invited residents to share their thoughts on current and future challenges for the City. A total of 1552 responses to the survey were received of which 69 were blank, with 1453 making up the final data set. This report highlights the findings from the survey. The majority of the participants were female (65%, n=744), 33% were from Traralgon, 35% from smaller townships with the remaining 32% from Moe, Newborough, Morwell and Churchill. The participants ranged in age from 17-30 years (15%), 31-40 years (27%), 41-70 years (43%) 70+ years (10%). The majority of the participants were employed in healthcare, education and administrative roles with 89% stating that they live and work in Latrobe City. Friends are family was cited as the most common reason why participants believed that Latrobe City was a good place, with Location in Victoria, Affordability and Natural environment rounding off the top four responses. The most common reason people gave for Latrobe City being a good place to work was Distance from home (n=504) and similarly the most common reason participants gave for it being a good place to study was Close to home. Safety, Economy and Built environment were considered the things most important for Latrobe City Council to focus on this was evident in both the quantitative and qualitative responses. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the content from the six open-ended questions in the survey. Six main themes emerged; Employment, Safety, Transport, Education, Sport and Entertainment and Hope for the future.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael , Reimers, Vaughan , Prokopiv, Valerie , James, Michelle , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prezioso, Michelle , Federation University. Collaborative Evaluation Unit (CEU)
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: As part of Latrobe City’s community engagement strategy, a survey was developed and distributed during May to June 2021, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data to capture feedback and suggestions on how Latrobe City could be a better place to live, work, visit and play. The survey also invited residents to share their thoughts on current and future challenges for the City. A total of 1552 responses to the survey were received of which 69 were blank, with 1453 making up the final data set. This report highlights the findings from the survey. The majority of the participants were female (65%, n=744), 33% were from Traralgon, 35% from smaller townships with the remaining 32% from Moe, Newborough, Morwell and Churchill. The participants ranged in age from 17-30 years (15%), 31-40 years (27%), 41-70 years (43%) 70+ years (10%). The majority of the participants were employed in healthcare, education and administrative roles with 89% stating that they live and work in Latrobe City. Friends are family was cited as the most common reason why participants believed that Latrobe City was a good place, with Location in Victoria, Affordability and Natural environment rounding off the top four responses. The most common reason people gave for Latrobe City being a good place to work was Distance from home (n=504) and similarly the most common reason participants gave for it being a good place to study was Close to home. Safety, Economy and Built environment were considered the things most important for Latrobe City Council to focus on this was evident in both the quantitative and qualitative responses. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the content from the six open-ended questions in the survey. Six main themes emerged; Employment, Safety, Transport, Education, Sport and Entertainment and Hope for the future.
Latrobe Regional Hospital : The Wellness Centre evaluation 2021-2022
- Porter, Joanne, Simic, Megan, Ghasemiardekani, Maryam, Prokopiv, Valerie
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Ghasemiardekani, Maryam , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) partnered with the Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) to evaluate their Staff Wellness Centre, designed to provide wellbeing support for staff during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation had identified an impact to staff wellness during the pandemic, responding with the Centre to help staff access health promotion services, mental and physical wellbeing services. CERC assisted with evaluating the service, demonstrating the impact the service has had on the overall wellbeing of staff.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Simic, Megan , Ghasemiardekani, Maryam , Prokopiv, Valerie
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) partnered with the Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) to evaluate their Staff Wellness Centre, designed to provide wellbeing support for staff during and post the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation had identified an impact to staff wellness during the pandemic, responding with the Centre to help staff access health promotion services, mental and physical wellbeing services. CERC assisted with evaluating the service, demonstrating the impact the service has had on the overall wellbeing of staff.