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.
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.
Men’s shed field officer project phase 2 evaluation 2022/2023
- Porter, Joanne, Coombs, Nicole, Soldatenko, Daria, Simic, Megan, Miller, Elizabeth, My, Sambath, Bransgrove, Natalie
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Coombs, Nicole , Soldatenko, Daria , Simic, Megan , Miller, Elizabeth , My, Sambath , Bransgrove, Natalie
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: In September 2021, the Latrobe Health Assembly (LHA) and Victorian Men’s Sheds Association (VSMA) launched the Men’s Shed Field Officer in Latrobe to work with local men, Men’s Sheds and other men’s groups with the aim to achieve increased health and wellbeing outcomes for local men and support the activity of the Men’s Sheds in Latrobe. The Field Officer role had previously been evaluated by the Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC) from Federation University, with several recommendations made after analysing data collected from the Field Officer himself and the Shed members. At the end of the first year, it was recommended that the project be extended for another 12 months to allow the adaption of processes to permit further impact of the role. With identified misconceptions and challenges in identifying how the role could assist the Sheds, it was determined more time was required to learn about the Sheds and the individual needs associated with each different Shed culture. The Men’s Shed Field Officer engaged with Men’s Sheds in Toongabbie, Traralgon, Traralgon South, Boolarra, Churchill, Moe, Newborough, and Morwell and helped with the establishment of a new shed in Moe called Carpenter Bee Men’s Shed. The CERC was again commissioned to evaluate Phase 2 of the project with the aim to contribute to the knowledge regarding the best use of resources to achieve improved engagement with men across Latrobe and achieve enhanced health outcomes.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Coombs, Nicole , Soldatenko, Daria , Simic, Megan , Miller, Elizabeth , My, Sambath , Bransgrove, Natalie
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: In September 2021, the Latrobe Health Assembly (LHA) and Victorian Men’s Sheds Association (VSMA) launched the Men’s Shed Field Officer in Latrobe to work with local men, Men’s Sheds and other men’s groups with the aim to achieve increased health and wellbeing outcomes for local men and support the activity of the Men’s Sheds in Latrobe. The Field Officer role had previously been evaluated by the Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC) from Federation University, with several recommendations made after analysing data collected from the Field Officer himself and the Shed members. At the end of the first year, it was recommended that the project be extended for another 12 months to allow the adaption of processes to permit further impact of the role. With identified misconceptions and challenges in identifying how the role could assist the Sheds, it was determined more time was required to learn about the Sheds and the individual needs associated with each different Shed culture. The Men’s Shed Field Officer engaged with Men’s Sheds in Toongabbie, Traralgon, Traralgon South, Boolarra, Churchill, Moe, Newborough, and Morwell and helped with the establishment of a new shed in Moe called Carpenter Bee Men’s Shed. The CERC was again commissioned to evaluate Phase 2 of the project with the aim to contribute to the knowledge regarding the best use of resources to achieve improved engagement with men across Latrobe and achieve enhanced health outcomes.
Physical literacy scoping project : children and families 2022-2023 final report
- Fenton, Sam, Porter, Joanne, Fletcher, Anna, Dabkowski, Elissa, Prins, Alex
- Authors: Fenton, Sam , Porter, Joanne , Fletcher, Anna , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prins, Alex
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Physical Literacy Scoping Project: Children and Families was an initiative of the Latrobe Health Assembly (LHA) Physical Literacy Working Group (PLWG). The research project was funded by the Latrobe Health Assembly and completed by the Community Evaluation Research Group (CERG) in partnership with Institute of Education, Arts and Community (IEAC) at Federation University. The scope of the project included: Enabling community agencies; engaging stakeholders from health promotion, physical activity, education, sport, recreation, and recreation planning; Identifying and prioritising projects; identifying existing support, funding and initiatives and identifying needs for training, education, and ongoing support.
- Authors: Fenton, Sam , Porter, Joanne , Fletcher, Anna , Dabkowski, Elissa , Prins, Alex
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Physical Literacy Scoping Project: Children and Families was an initiative of the Latrobe Health Assembly (LHA) Physical Literacy Working Group (PLWG). The research project was funded by the Latrobe Health Assembly and completed by the Community Evaluation Research Group (CERG) in partnership with Institute of Education, Arts and Community (IEAC) at Federation University. The scope of the project included: Enabling community agencies; engaging stakeholders from health promotion, physical activity, education, sport, recreation, and recreation planning; Identifying and prioritising projects; identifying existing support, funding and initiatives and identifying needs for training, education, and ongoing support.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Understanding and addressing digital disadvantage in Wimmera Southern Mallee :Research report
- Tischler, Catherine, McDonald, Kelsey, Reeves, Keir
- Authors: Tischler, Catherine , McDonald, Kelsey , Reeves, Keir
- Date: 2022
- Type: Report , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Understanding and addressing digital disadvantage in Wimmera Southern Mallee Project (the project) explored the challenges Wimmera Southern Mallee residents, focusing on low-income individuals and families, small/micro businesses and migrant groups have in accessing and effectively engaging with digital technology to help guide future regional actions. The project team interviewed 31 people from across five Local Government areas in the Wimmera Southern Mallee (Hindmarsh, West Wimmera, Northern Grampians, Horsham Rural City and Yarriambiack) who have low engagement with digital technology and/or limited internet access, as well as a representative sample of those who work to support those with low digital literacy. Ethnographic research was undertaken to understand the factors that impact on digital engagement and accessibility across the three key demographic groups in the study area. The research investigated people’s access to hardware (e.g. computers, phones and tablets) as well as networks (internet plans and connections – broadband, satellite, mobile etc.). Understanding the challenges in engaging with and interpreting digital technology will help inform future advocacy and policy responses for this region. The research will also facilitate better targeting of information and support to Wimmera Mallee residents to actively improve uptake, access, and engagement. This is important, as the region has been identified as having the lowest digital literacy of any area in Victoria (Australian Digital Inclusion Index 2020).
- Authors: Tischler, Catherine , McDonald, Kelsey , Reeves, Keir
- Date: 2022
- Type: Report , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Understanding and addressing digital disadvantage in Wimmera Southern Mallee Project (the project) explored the challenges Wimmera Southern Mallee residents, focusing on low-income individuals and families, small/micro businesses and migrant groups have in accessing and effectively engaging with digital technology to help guide future regional actions. The project team interviewed 31 people from across five Local Government areas in the Wimmera Southern Mallee (Hindmarsh, West Wimmera, Northern Grampians, Horsham Rural City and Yarriambiack) who have low engagement with digital technology and/or limited internet access, as well as a representative sample of those who work to support those with low digital literacy. Ethnographic research was undertaken to understand the factors that impact on digital engagement and accessibility across the three key demographic groups in the study area. The research investigated people’s access to hardware (e.g. computers, phones and tablets) as well as networks (internet plans and connections – broadband, satellite, mobile etc.). Understanding the challenges in engaging with and interpreting digital technology will help inform future advocacy and policy responses for this region. The research will also facilitate better targeting of information and support to Wimmera Mallee residents to actively improve uptake, access, and engagement. This is important, as the region has been identified as having the lowest digital literacy of any area in Victoria (Australian Digital Inclusion Index 2020).
‘I Am Deadly’ project evaluation December 2022
- Porter, Joanne, Johnson, Nicholas, Prokopiv, Valerie, Jackson, Megan, Prezioso, Michelle, Cowan, Amy, Barbagallo, Michael, Dabkowski, Elissa
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Johnson, Nicholas , Prokopiv, Valerie , Jackson, Megan , Prezioso, Michelle , Cowan, Amy , Barbagallo, Michael , Dabkowski, Elissa
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) evaluated the implementation of the ‘I Am Deadly’ project, which is a version of the ‘I Am Ready’ project targeting young Aboriginal students. The project aimed at encouraging up to 20 Aboriginal students to take up a trade and providing them with a pathway into a trade. It also aimed to encourage Aboriginal Students to continue their education to allow a greater choice for employment options post-secondary school.
- Authors: Porter, Joanne , Johnson, Nicholas , Prokopiv, Valerie , Jackson, Megan , Prezioso, Michelle , Cowan, Amy , Barbagallo, Michael , Dabkowski, Elissa
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: CERC (formally CERG) evaluated the implementation of the ‘I Am Deadly’ project, which is a version of the ‘I Am Ready’ project targeting young Aboriginal students. The project aimed at encouraging up to 20 Aboriginal students to take up a trade and providing them with a pathway into a trade. It also aimed to encourage Aboriginal Students to continue their education to allow a greater choice for employment options post-secondary school.
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.
Risky drinking social worlds in Victoria: a social media analysis
- Ahmed, Ashir, Martin, Jennifer, Towl, David, Haussegger, Zac
- Authors: Ahmed, Ashir , Martin, Jennifer , Towl, David , Haussegger, Zac
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ahmed, Ashir , Martin, Jennifer , Towl, David , Haussegger, Zac
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
The role of primary care mental health nurse practitioners in Australia
- McKinnon, Brett, Cross, Wendy
- Authors: McKinnon, Brett , Cross, Wendy
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Tristar Medical Group use Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (MHNPs) to both provide and co-ordinate care. Completion rates of entire 90-day cycles of care and review of GPMHCPs sits at approximately 70%, which is significantly better than the National average of 42% since the introduction of the MBS 2712 billing item. This item itself is integral in demonstrating effectiveness in reviewing planned care. The role of the MHNP has been vital to achieving excellent patient care outcomes in this domain. MHNPs value add into Primary Care and General Practice by: • Advanced assessment and diagnosis of Mental Health Issues • Monitoring physical health, • Ordering and analysing tests • Prescribing medications, • Providing psychoeducation for medication adherence • Psychotherapy / Psychological Interventions • Monitoring and reporting all aspects of care to the Treating Team Participants in this evaluation believe that Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (MHNP) provide the maximum value for clinical care across the entire biopsychosocial Model. Clients receiving treatment and support by MHNPs experienced improved outcomes through increased continuity of care- including through home visits, follow up and care co-ordination, access to support and greater compliance with their treatment plans. Care provided by MHNPs demonstrated evidence of an overall reduction in hospital admission rates and lengths of stay in hospital where admission occurred; increased levels of employment; improved family and community connections; and positive impacts on GP workloads. Evidence of effectiveness of the MHNP model of service delivery whereby MHNs were actively providing clinical interventions and co-ordinating care for patients is well supported by the results of this evaluation. If the business model and funding changed, more MHNPs could be recruited, especially given the scarcity of other mental health clinical discipline in rural communities. Current funding for MHNPs has been restricted to those who receive PHN subsidy under the stepped care model. This limits the opportunity to provide the full range of care that MHNPs are capable of delivering compared to other clinical disciplines. Submissions to government to facilitate greater access to MBS items for their services is recommended.
- Authors: McKinnon, Brett , Cross, Wendy
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Technical report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Tristar Medical Group use Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (MHNPs) to both provide and co-ordinate care. Completion rates of entire 90-day cycles of care and review of GPMHCPs sits at approximately 70%, which is significantly better than the National average of 42% since the introduction of the MBS 2712 billing item. This item itself is integral in demonstrating effectiveness in reviewing planned care. The role of the MHNP has been vital to achieving excellent patient care outcomes in this domain. MHNPs value add into Primary Care and General Practice by: • Advanced assessment and diagnosis of Mental Health Issues • Monitoring physical health, • Ordering and analysing tests • Prescribing medications, • Providing psychoeducation for medication adherence • Psychotherapy / Psychological Interventions • Monitoring and reporting all aspects of care to the Treating Team Participants in this evaluation believe that Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (MHNP) provide the maximum value for clinical care across the entire biopsychosocial Model. Clients receiving treatment and support by MHNPs experienced improved outcomes through increased continuity of care- including through home visits, follow up and care co-ordination, access to support and greater compliance with their treatment plans. Care provided by MHNPs demonstrated evidence of an overall reduction in hospital admission rates and lengths of stay in hospital where admission occurred; increased levels of employment; improved family and community connections; and positive impacts on GP workloads. Evidence of effectiveness of the MHNP model of service delivery whereby MHNs were actively providing clinical interventions and co-ordinating care for patients is well supported by the results of this evaluation. If the business model and funding changed, more MHNPs could be recruited, especially given the scarcity of other mental health clinical discipline in rural communities. Current funding for MHNPs has been restricted to those who receive PHN subsidy under the stepped care model. This limits the opportunity to provide the full range of care that MHNPs are capable of delivering compared to other clinical disciplines. Submissions to government to facilitate greater access to MBS items for their services is recommended.
'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.
Reporting on training developed for pharmacy assistants and pharmacy dispensary technicians working with Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) consumers in regional Victoria
- Patil, Tejaswini, Cooper, Simon J., Salman, Mohammed, Mummery, Jane, Molloy, Pauline, Williams, Dominic
- Authors: Patil, Tejaswini , Cooper, Simon J. , Salman, Mohammed , Mummery, Jane , Molloy, Pauline , Williams, Dominic
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: A recent study (Patil et al., 2018) analysing lived experiences of Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) consumers suggested that some experienced discrimination and stigma in the pharmacy context in regional Victoria, Australia. One of the recommendations was to explore professional training and education opportunities for allied health professionals and in particular, Pharmacy Assistants (PAs) and Pharmacy Dispensary Technicians (PDTs) as they are integral to serving MATOD consumers. Ballarat Community Health commissioned Federation University to develop training modules for PAs and PDTs working in the pharmacy settings in regional Victoria. A survey of the literature identified two key issues, namely, the lack of professional education and training of PAs and PDTs involved in serving the consumers in pharmacy settings either at the national or state level in Australia. The other finding was the varied use of different types of ‘opioid dependence’ treatments in different jurisdictions of Australia which had implications in terms of embedding psychosocial or Social Determinants of Health (SDH) with therapeutic treatments. As a result, this project serves as a significant step in employing SDH based training modules for PAs and PDTs working with MATOD consumers in the pharmacy settings to address stigma and discrimination. The training workshop materials will be evaluated to determine its efficacy in terms of change of attitudes and professional practice. The aim of this study is to: 1. Deliver and evaluate a new professional training module concerning MATOD and; 2. Examine and evaluate the efficacy and impact of the training module on professional practice and changes in attitudes towards stigma and discrimination amongst PAs and PDTs. This project was conducted in two stages. At the first stage, two workshops (each lasting for two hours) were delivered in two different regional locations in the state of Victoria, Australia (referred to as locations A and B in this report). Thirteen participants expressed interest in location A but eleven attended both training workshops. In location B, fourteen attended the first workshop, while twelve attended the second workshop. Participants who attended the training were administered pre-training and post-training surveys. The pre-training surveys included demographic information, professional experience, educational background and professional training, whereas the post-training survey involved questions about the impact and efficacy of the training delivered. The second stage involved conducting in-depth qualitative interviews with participants who attended the training workshops. The main goal was to evaluate the impact on professional practice and change in attitudes amongst PAs and PDTs. Data collected from the surveys and interviews were analysed using quantitative and qualitative content analysis via an inductive process. In addition, an interpretive phenomenological analysis was undertaken to identify and code themes emerging from the interviews. Ethics approval was received through the Federation University’s Human Research Ethics Committee before the commencement of this project.
- Authors: Patil, Tejaswini , Cooper, Simon J. , Salman, Mohammed , Mummery, Jane , Molloy, Pauline , Williams, Dominic
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report , Report
- Full Text:
- Description: A recent study (Patil et al., 2018) analysing lived experiences of Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Dependence (MATOD) consumers suggested that some experienced discrimination and stigma in the pharmacy context in regional Victoria, Australia. One of the recommendations was to explore professional training and education opportunities for allied health professionals and in particular, Pharmacy Assistants (PAs) and Pharmacy Dispensary Technicians (PDTs) as they are integral to serving MATOD consumers. Ballarat Community Health commissioned Federation University to develop training modules for PAs and PDTs working in the pharmacy settings in regional Victoria. A survey of the literature identified two key issues, namely, the lack of professional education and training of PAs and PDTs involved in serving the consumers in pharmacy settings either at the national or state level in Australia. The other finding was the varied use of different types of ‘opioid dependence’ treatments in different jurisdictions of Australia which had implications in terms of embedding psychosocial or Social Determinants of Health (SDH) with therapeutic treatments. As a result, this project serves as a significant step in employing SDH based training modules for PAs and PDTs working with MATOD consumers in the pharmacy settings to address stigma and discrimination. The training workshop materials will be evaluated to determine its efficacy in terms of change of attitudes and professional practice. The aim of this study is to: 1. Deliver and evaluate a new professional training module concerning MATOD and; 2. Examine and evaluate the efficacy and impact of the training module on professional practice and changes in attitudes towards stigma and discrimination amongst PAs and PDTs. This project was conducted in two stages. At the first stage, two workshops (each lasting for two hours) were delivered in two different regional locations in the state of Victoria, Australia (referred to as locations A and B in this report). Thirteen participants expressed interest in location A but eleven attended both training workshops. In location B, fourteen attended the first workshop, while twelve attended the second workshop. Participants who attended the training were administered pre-training and post-training surveys. The pre-training surveys included demographic information, professional experience, educational background and professional training, whereas the post-training survey involved questions about the impact and efficacy of the training delivered. The second stage involved conducting in-depth qualitative interviews with participants who attended the training workshops. The main goal was to evaluate the impact on professional practice and change in attitudes amongst PAs and PDTs. Data collected from the surveys and interviews were analysed using quantitative and qualitative content analysis via an inductive process. In addition, an interpretive phenomenological analysis was undertaken to identify and code themes emerging from the interviews. Ethics approval was received through the Federation University’s Human Research Ethics Committee before the commencement of this project.
Unlocking aspiration, outcomes and equity by unpacking childcare issues in the Wimmera Southern Mallee
- Tischler, Catherine, McDonald, Kelsey, Reeves, Keir
- Authors: Tischler, Catherine , McDonald, Kelsey , Reeves, Keir
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report , Research report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Unlocking Aspiration, Outcomes and Equity by unpacking childcare issues in the Wimmera Southern Mallee Project (the project) explored issues in childcare provision and access across four rural local government areas (Hindmarsh, West Wimmera, Yarriambiack and Northern Grampians) within the Wimmera Southern Mallee. The intent of this work was to inform the ByFive Wimmera Southern Mallee (WSM) Early Years initiative (ByFive), a place-based community collaboration. ByFive was initiated by the WSM regional partnership in 2018, after the community nominated early childhood as their highest priority. The Victorian Government provides funding to ByFive to work together to redesign and improve early years’ service delivery within the WSM. Through this work the ByFive collaboration seeks to overcome disadvantage and inform whole of government system change to address a range of issues impacting the social, health and developmental outcomes of children by the age of five in the Wimmera Southern Mallee Region.
- Authors: Tischler, Catherine , McDonald, Kelsey , Reeves, Keir
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Technical report , Research report
- Full Text:
- Description: The Unlocking Aspiration, Outcomes and Equity by unpacking childcare issues in the Wimmera Southern Mallee Project (the project) explored issues in childcare provision and access across four rural local government areas (Hindmarsh, West Wimmera, Yarriambiack and Northern Grampians) within the Wimmera Southern Mallee. The intent of this work was to inform the ByFive Wimmera Southern Mallee (WSM) Early Years initiative (ByFive), a place-based community collaboration. ByFive was initiated by the WSM regional partnership in 2018, after the community nominated early childhood as their highest priority. The Victorian Government provides funding to ByFive to work together to redesign and improve early years’ service delivery within the WSM. Through this work the ByFive collaboration seeks to overcome disadvantage and inform whole of government system change to address a range of issues impacting the social, health and developmental outcomes of children by the age of five in the Wimmera Southern Mallee Region.
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.
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.