Evaluation of the Northern Territory’s men’s behaviour change programs: Key learnings for policy and practice

Abstract

This report presents findings from process evaluations of two community-based men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs) funded by the Northern Territory Department of Children and Families. The evaluations focused on the CatholicCare NT Perpetrator Intervention Service in Darwin and Wadeye and the Tangentyere Council’s Marra’ka Mbarintja MBCP in Alice Springs. The evaluations examined how the MBCPs were being delivered and compared their practices against quality standards for MBCPs in the NT. The report identifies strengths in program delivery, such as prioritising women’s safety, providing flexible responses to men, and fostering continuous learning and improvement. Areas for improvement include expanding referral sources beyond criminal-legal pathways and refining risk assessment and management processes.<br><br> The report outlines recommendations at both the program and system levels. Program-level recommendations include enhancing program accessibility, increasing referral pathways, and strengthening collaboration with other service providers. System-level recommendations focus on increased investment in MBCPs, workforce development, improved risk assessment frameworks, and enhancing cultural safety. Findings highlight the importance of supporting service providers and government agencies in strengthening interventions for men who use violence to improve outcomes for women and children in the NT.<br><br>See also <a href="https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/23046" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Quality practice elements for men’s behaviour change programs (MBCPs) in the Northern Territory.</em></a>