Evaluating the Safer Children, Safer Communities program

The Benevolent Society commissioned Outpost Consulting to evaluate Safer Children, Safer Communities, a place-based program funded by Westpac. Delivered from 2022 to 2025 in Condobolin (NSW), Caboolture (QLD) and Port Augusta (SA), the program supported six community-led initiatives designed by Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, non-government organisations and local government partners to strengthen the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. The activities spanned culture, education, youth participation, family support and mental health.

We used a mixed-methods approach, combining program documentation, participation data, case studies and site visits with consultations involving 118 people, including children, young people, parents and carers, community members and staff. Our report showed how the community-led model helped services build trust and engage families who often had little contact with services. Outcomes included stronger cultural identity, greater connection and engagement in positive activities, and improved community capability and collaboration. We also identified lessons to guide future multi-community, place-based investments.