This study was originally conceived as a way of better understanding the promise and practice of evaluation across Australia. This project was led by the Australian Evaluation Society (AES) Relationships Committee, drawing on support and input from many AES members, including a dedicated State of Evaluation Working Group. KPMG is acknowledged for its contribution to the project. The data collection was completed in mid-2022.

This being the first study of its kind in Australia, it is likely to be repeated periodically. The AES Board recognise the report as a starting point for further exploration and discussion. Any interesting and emerging trends may be further or more deeply investigated. In the meantime, the report findings are helpful for the AES in setting its strategic directions beyond 2023 and in tailoring support for members who work in the evolving field of evaluation.

This study is the first of its kind in Australia. It may serve as a first review of further issues that could be targeted in follow-up targeted studies of this nature. It sets the scene for robust discussion among the evaluation and policy community. In particular, it calls for continuation to evaluation capability and capacity building at individual, organisational and evaluation-sector levels.