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Hands Up Mallee’s Measurement, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Framework helps us understand the difference our work is making, learn from what we do, and adapt for long-term community change. By analysing and learning from data, stories and community experiences, we can see both progress and challenges and use the gathered knowledge to improve our work together.
Through MEL, we turn action into evidence, and evidence into better decision-making and outcomes for our community.
Measurement, Evaluation and Learning Coordinator
Fiona Merlin
Our MEL strategy makes sure that evaluation and learning happen at every level of our work. From individual projects through to collective outcomes for the whole community. To do this, our MEL strategy works across three connected layers.
At the centre is our Overarching MEL Framework, a high-level model that sets out our Theory of Change, high-level key evaluation questions that we seek to answer and the outcomes we’re working towards. The principles of community voice, collaboration, Aboriginal self-determination, data sovereignty, and continuous learning guide this framework
This umbrella is supported by Nested MEL Frameworks for 0–8 and 9–18 years, ensuring MEL is relevant and accountable for different age groups.
Together, this umbrella and nested structure connect project-level insights with system-wide outcomes, ensuring HUM can track impact, capture learnings, and adapt based on evidence. Every project also begins with a Mini-MEL, so evaluation planning is built in from the start.
Measurement, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) is about more than tracking numbers. It’s about gathering and analysing evidence and learning together to ensure better design making by and with the community. Our MEL practice is not a one-off report or a compliance exercise. It plays a key role in demonstrating the impact of our work and strengthening accountability.
We use MEL to:
Stay connected with what’s happening at Hands Up Mallee. From newsletters and community stories to blogs and media coverage, this is where we share the journey.
