This evaluation framework will: Describe the Cashless Debit Card Trial program and what will be evaluated; Help to develop sound evaluation plans and implementation of evaluation activities; Articulate the program goals and measurable short, medium and long-term objectives; Define relationships among inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impacts; and Clarify the relationship between program activities and external factors. 2.2 The Cashless Debit Card Trial The Australian Government is undertaking the CDCT to deliver and manage income support payments (ISPs) in order to reduce levels of community harm related to alcohol consumption, drug use and gambling. This initiative has been informed by a recommendation in Andrew Forrest’s Creating Parity report. It has also been informed by lessons learned from previous income management (IM) trials. In the CDCT, a proportion (from 50 to 80 per cent) of an individual’s ISP is directed to a restricted bank account, accessed by a debit card (not allowing cash withdrawals). This debit card cannot be used at merchants who sell alcohol and gambling related products. Participation in the CDCT is mandatory for all working age ISP recipients who live in the selected Trial sites. In addition, wage earners, Age Pensioners and Veterans’ Affairs Pensioners who live in the Trial sites can opt-in to the CDCT.
This evaluation framework will: Describe the Cashless Debit Card Trial program and what will be evaluated; Help to develop sound evaluation plans and implementation of evaluation activities; Articulate the program goals and measurable short, medium and long-term objectives; Define relationships among inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impacts; and Clarify the relationship between program activities and external factors. 2.2 The Cashless Debit Card Trial The Australian Government is undertaking the CDCT to deliver and manage income support payments (ISPs) in order to reduce levels of community harm related to alcohol consumption, drug use and gambling. This initiative has been informed by a recommendation in Andrew Forrest’s Creating Parity report. It has also been informed by lessons learned from previous income management (IM) trials. In the CDCT, a proportion (from 50 to 80 per cent) of an individual’s ISP is directed to a restricted bank account, accessed by a debit card (not allowing cash withdrawals). This debit card cannot be used at merchants who sell alcohol and gambling related products. Participation in the CDCT is mandatory for all working age ISP recipients who live in the selected Trial sites. In addition, wage earners, Age Pensioners and Veterans’ Affairs Pensioners who live in the Trial sites can opt-in to the CDCT.
3018_dss_cdct_final_evaluation_report_27-8-17_2.docx