Regional Job Creation Fund Round One Process Evaluation

The program will collectively achieve over 5,000 new direct full-time equivalent jobs over three years, exceeding the program target.

The objective of RJCF is to support economic recovery and resilience by activating, bringing forward or attracting investment in regional NSW by co-funding business projects that create at least five new jobs. 

This Process Evaluation assesses the appropriateness, efficiency and effectiveness of the design and implementation of RJCF Round One. It covers activities relating to program design, application, assessment and contracting processes. The program had a high level of interest, receiving 403 preliminary applications. 

The evaluation found that the program was well designed to achieve its objective of creating 5,000 new jobs in regional NSW. The program was generally well administered through a two-stage application process and rigorous assessment process. Funding decisions were undertaken in line with the eligibility and assessment criteria. 

The findings and recommendations of this Process Evaluation have been used to drive program improvements in the RJCF Round Two which was open from 31 January to 11 March 2022. Evaluation findings will also inform future improvements to program planning, design and delivery in other regional grant programs. 

Regional Job Creation Fund Round One Process Evaluation (PDF 2.9MB)

Date of publication: March 2022

Title: Regional Jobs Creation Fund Process Evaluation 
Subtitle: Report of Findings 
To cite this report: Stevenson, M, Page, B, Austin R & Perry, L 2022, Regional Job Creation Fund Process Evaluation: Report of Findings, Department of Regional New South Wales, Queanbeyan