This paper is a synthesis of findings from a three year research programme on “engaging with the ‘hard to reach’ to improve uptake of social and health service”. The researchers recognised that ‘hard to reach’ is a problematic way of thinking about potential clients of a service. The ‘hard to reach’ may not necessarily see...

Three months into the full implementation of the biggest reform the disability sector in Australia has ever seen, we spoke to four disability providers about their journey to introduce and leverage innovation strategies within their organisations. Having observed House with No Steps, Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Northcott and Life Without Barriers introduce innovation strategies over the...

The Commission has been asked to examine whether the efficiency and effectiveness of human services could be improved by introducing greater competition, contestability and informed user choice. The terms of reference request that the inquiry be undertaken in two parts: the first is to identify services that are best suited to reform by introducing greater...

The aim of the research program is to increase understanding of the difference community programs make to the lives of Western Australians and what factors enhance the resilience and long-term financial viability of Western Australia’s emerging social enterprise sector.

This paper was released to assist participants in preparing a submission to the public inquiry into Human Services. It outlines a range of issues about which the Commission seeks information. Background to the inquiry The Competition Policy Review recommended that governments should, wherever possible, put user choice at the heart of human services delivery as...