Collaborate with us to address our most pressing research priorities

Help us fill critical evidence gaps and generate new knowledge to directly inform policy and practice. The Department of Communities and Justice has a keen interest in research that addresses our most pressing priorities. We need sound evidence about what works for clients and communities and how we can deliver the best services.

Help address the DCJ Research Strategy 2020-2025 priorities

1. Understanding clients and communities
   • Understand the needs and experiences of all clients and communities to inform service delivery and program development.
2. System quality and effectiveness
   • Investigate how to improve the quality, effectiveness and processes of Communities and Justice systems.
3. Identify what works for communities
   • Test the effectiveness of programs and understand what components and practices work to support stronger and safer communities.
4. Aboriginal-led research
   • Support Aboriginal-led research and the principles of Indigenous Data Sovereignty.
5. Economic benefits
   • Quantify the economic benefits of achieving Community and Justice outcomes.

Find out more about the DCJ Research Strategy 2020-2025

Support delivery of the DCJ Strategic Direction 2020-2024 and the NSW State Outcomes

1. Active and inclusive communities
   • Provide a range of community support to improve wellbeing, increase community participation, and promote social inclusion and cohesion.
2. Children and families thrive
   • Supporting the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children, young people and families.
3. People have a safe and affordable place to live
   • Providing assistance for people unable to access or maintain appropriate housing, including homelessness services.

Find out more about the DCJ Strategic Direction 2020-2024 and the NSW State Outcomes

Support important Closing the Gap targets

1. By 2031, reduce the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults held in incarceration by at least 15 per cent.
2. By 2031, reduce the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people (10-17 years) in detention by at least 15 per cent.
3. By 2031, reduce the rate of over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care by 45 per cent.
4. A significant and sustained reduction in violence and abuse against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children towards zero.
5. Significant and sustained reduction in suicide of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people towards zero.

Find out more about the Closing the Gap targets and the NSW Implementation Plan for Closing the Gap 2021-24.

If you think that your research can contribute to improving the lives of vulnerable people in NSW, consider applying for a research partnership or contact us for opportunities to translate your research findings for policy and practice.

Any questions? Contact us at ResearchPartnerships@dcj.nsw.gov.au