P776 Social Supermarket Program Evaluation

The Department of Human Services (DHS) requires an evaluation and capacity building partner to evaluate the Social Supermarket Program, which is currently being commissioned and anticipated to commence as of January 2026.

Social Supermarkets are often defined as purpose-built, retail-style stores that offer affordable food and connections to social, and community supports in a welcoming, inclusive environment. The aim of the Social Supermarket Program is to provide access to affordable, low-cost food in a dignified manner, as well as the opportunity to connect with community, people and places, and the social support services they may require.

Part of the evaluation will be investigating how the service model used in the SSP achieves the above objectives as well as any quality requirements that may be presented within the framework of the Program.

The following Performance Measures are expected to be met by the successful Respondent:

• Develop a program evaluation methodology and process, including a reporting framework
• Participate in and provide expert advice to the Social Supermarket Establishment Reference group
• Meet with and provide advice to SSP partners and providers to develop their service model to better meet and demonstrate progress towards the short, medium and long-term SSP Outcomes as per the Program’s Guidelines
• Deliver periodic interim Evaluation Reports
• Deliver a final Evaluation Report by 31 December 2027.

A standard Goods and Services Agreement will be utilised with the successful respondent.

The proposed contract term will begin no later than 1 January 2026, with the aim of receiving the final Evaluation Report by 31 January2027. However, should it be required, two extension options of 1 year each may be exercised along with additional yearly evaluation activities.