Research and evaluations
Specialist Homelessness Services program evaluation – Final report
In November 2015, the NSW government announced its intention to progressively commission homelessness services for outcomes embedding outcomes and quality into future SHS contracting requirements and assuring a continuous quality improvement approach.
DCJ contracted Ernst and Young (EY) to undertake the evaluation of the SHS program. The evaluation of SHS services aimed to build a comprehensive understanding of the service system and provide strategic direction and advice for the future of the program. The evaluation will be used to support the recommissioning approach SHS services from 30 June 2026.
The SHS program evaluation has been completed and the full report is now available.
About the report
The report provides an understanding of the value of the program and the outcomes it is achieving, as well as areas for further development. The evaluation, makes twenty-three recommendations, related to key themes of:
The report provides an understanding of the value of the program and the outcomes it is achieving, as well as areas for further development. The evaluation, makes twenty-three recommendations, related to key themes of:
- Accessibility
- Client cohorts and needs
- Client centricity and integration
- Networks and governance
- Data collection and reporting.
How will the information in the report be used?
The SHS evaluation will inform future service design. DCJ will work with relevant stakeholders to review and consider each of the recommendations identified through the evaluation. Findings and recommendations from the program evaluation will help to guide the SHS program approach, as we work towards the commencement of the five-year contracts from July 2026.
DCJ will continue to work closely with the sector in exploring how the SHS evaluation can support providers and enhance homelessness delivery in NSW.
DCJ is considering the recommendations and will publish a response to the recommendations soon.
For enquiries, please contact Specialist Homelessness Services at SHSProgram@homes.nsw.gov.au
Past Reports
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
- Assertive Outreach Pilot Program - ‘No Going Back’ Formative Evaluation – 2021
- Assertive Outreach Pilot Program - Evaluation – 2023
- Homelessness Action Plan Projects (HYAP) : Analysis of Self Evaluation Reports: Final Report - 2021
C
G
H
- Home and Healthy - 2023
- Homeless Youth Assistance Programs - Evaluation - 2020
- Homeless Youth Assistance Program (HYAP): Summary report of state-wide consultations - 2015Homeless Youth Assistance Programs - Evaluation - 2020
- Homelessness Action Plan Evaluations Summary – AHURI - 2013