DPCD Evaluations
A successful evaluation is one that answers your evaluation questions using robust data. As your evaluation questions are determined from your objectives, a successful evaluation will tell you if your program has met its objectives. It will allow you to examine the impact of your program (if focussed on outcomes) or redesign your program to make it better (if focused on performance). The results of a thorough evaluation should be reported back to your stakeholders for wider discussion or dissemination of lessons you have learned.
The following are some examples of successful DPCD evaluations that have been released publicly to show progress and disseminate findings.
Caroline Springs Partnership
The partnership approach adopted in Caroline Springs is a model for success in community development. This report indicates that it has resulted in a well-planned community that can provide services, not only to its residents, but to those across the Shire of Melton. Read the Caroline Springs Partnership report (PDF 899 kb)
Strengthening Local Communities: Arts in Community Settings
Arts projects in community settings generate significant benefits for participants, artists and communities. This report demonstrates that these projects can be significant tools for engaging hard to reach populations, and can provide an avenue for these groups to explore issues and express them to others. Read the Community Arts Report (PDF 1402 kb).
Men’s Sheds
Men’s Sheds are offering older men an opportunity to engage with their local community and share their skills and knowledge within an informal, supportive environment. This publication outlines some of the benefits for the men, their families and the local community. Read the Men's Sheds Brochure (PDF 1030 kb).
Neighbourhood Houses Report
Neighbourhood Houses have a significant impact on the social and human capital of participants. The report outlines the benefits of the Houses to both participants and communities, while the census results demonstrate the magnitude of community participation in Neighbourhood Houses, demonstrating that they are significant sites of community engagement. Read the Neighbourhood Houses Report (PDF 309 kb).
Country Football Grounds Assistance Program
Water management planning in rural and regional communities is improving playing surfaces of local sportsgrounds and encouraging greater usage of facilities. This outcomes report outlines the results of some of water saving projects undertaken across the state. Read the Country Footy Outcomes Report (PDF 863 kb).
Local Libraries
Almost half of the Victorian population belongs to their local library, borrowing a combined total of 50 million items each year. This one page brochure outlines the usage of public libraries in Victoria. Read the Local Libraries Brochure (PDF 107 kb).
Commonwealth Games
The Commonwealth Games provided social, environmental and economic benefits to the state. This triple bottom line assessment considers the impact of the Games on the community and evaluates its success against government objectives. Read the Commonwealth Games Report (PDF 420 kb).
Evaluation of Access for All Abilities
The Access for All Abilities program aims to provide sport and recreation opportunities that are inclusive of, and accessible to, people with disabilities. An evaluation undertaken in 2005 made a number of recommendations to improve the effectiveness of this program. Read the Evaluation Report (PDF 1.64 mb).
Linked page opens in a new window