Was implementation soundly planned and actioned?
1.3.1 Were the initiatives appropriately formulated? Although DHS clearly identified a need for each of the 4 initiatives, it is difficult to conclude whether these initiatives are the best possible solutions. It was not evident that in consulting with stakeholders, DHS had assessed all options for addressing problems or determining whole-of-system priorities. More extensive consultation may have led DHS to assess a wider range of options. In turn, this may have given DHS more certainty that its chosen initiatives would give the desired outcomes. DHS did not document or publicly communicate the link between each initiative and the strategic directions for reform of Out of Home Care until around 3 years after the change program commenced. This could have compromised CSO support for the initiatives – support that is critical to achieving the desired outcomes. We consider that the lack of research evidence on effective clinical interventions for children who have experienced severe abuse
