New research from AHURI underscored the need for better support in transitioning the social housing sector to an outcomes-based funding model.
The study, conducted by researchers from RMIT, University of New South Wales, University of Tasmania, and Swinburne University of Technology, explored the implications and practicalities of this shift.
“A key issue with outcomes-based service models are the serious questions about what should be measured, by whom, and for what purpose,” said lead researcher Professor Cameron Duff from RMIT.
Outcomes-based funding ties financial support to specific service outcomes like improved health or employment, rather than the volume of services provided. This approach necessitates ongoing, accurate measurement and evaluation of housing services' effectiveness.
“It can be difficult to accurately measure the impact of housing programs on achieving non-housing outcomes, such as improvements in health and wellbeing or social inclusion,” Duff said. “Furthermore, evaluating outcomes effectively is a costly business and could place a significant burden on individual providers if there is no support with evidencing their program outcomes.”
The research advocated for a standardised approach to measuring outcomes to enhance service delivery.
“Our research strongly recommends government do more to standardise outcomes measures,” Duff said.
Utilising existing datasets from national health and social care services, such as those from the ABS or the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare, could drive this standardisation.
The AHURI study also proposed creating a National Housing Outcomes Clearinghouse to develop and disseminate standardised outcomes tools and methods. This initiative would clarify agencies’ responsibilities and support the sharing of key findings to improve services sector-wide.
Implementing outcomes-based funding will likely transform the social housing sector beyond current policies and service provisions.
The AHURI research stressed the need to manage associated risks, particularly financial risks when outcomes are not met. Housing policymakers and professionals cautioned that this transition will require significant adjustments.
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