This evaluation report provides insights into early implementation and initial outcomes of Work for the Dole 2014-15.

Work for the Dole 2014-15 (WfD2014-15) was announced by the Australian Government as a core requirement for 18-29 year olds (in 18 selected areas located within Priority Employment Areas) who have been registered in Job Services Australia for at least 12 months and are in the Work Experience Phase or Compulsory Activity Phase of service. Work for the Dole activities are intended to provide eligible job seekers with work-like experiences (over a six month period) that help job seekers to learn new skills and improve their chances of finding a job. The programme will be national from July 2015 and cover most eligible job seekers up to the age of 60. 

The four overarching evaluation questions were identified in the evaluation framework as: 

1. What if any impact has the WfD2014-15 programme had on the referral of job seekers to WfD2014-15 or other activities and their commencement in those activities?
2. Has the supply of activities under WfD2014-15 been sufficient to meet demand?
3. Has WfD2014-15 provided suitable work-like experiences for eligible job seekers?
4. Is WfD2014-15 associated with improved employability?

The evaluation comprised qualitative and quantitative research with job seekers, qualitative research with Work for the Dole coordinators, employment service providers and host organisations and analysis of administrative data.