Evaluation of youth conduct orders and anti-social behaviour pilot programs

The Department of Premier and Cabinet (NSW) engaged Nous to assess these complimentary programs in pilot sites in NSW (2010-12). The programs seek to reduce youth anti-social behaviour by targeting young persons at risk of criminal offences: youth conduct orders (YCOs) for those already in the criminal justice system; anti social behaviour pilot programs (ASBPPs) for a broader range of young people. The overall objectives are to reduce re-offence rates and improve outcomes both for society and for the young person involved, through coordinated interagency collaboration to support the young person and in many cases the family of the young person.

Nous used a results based accountability approach to identify measures to evaluate the implementation as well as the impact/outcomes of the programs. The evaluation involved detailed and complex data collection to understand what was happening in each of the different locations. The work required sensitivity and understanding of privacy rights and inter departmental information sharing. Nous’ understanding of contributory causes of anti-social behaviour, a working knowledge of legal processes, evaluation expertise and the ability to manage complex stakeholder consultation were key success factors.

This work commenced in 2010 and the final report will be delivered in 2012.