Building upon 10 years of experience working alongside young people, in late 2024, the Board of TRACTION for Young People Ltd ("TRACTION") commissioned an independent impact evaluation to validate and reinforce a critical message prevention is not just a moral imperative; it is a fiscally responsible investment. This study, conducted by Torch Advisory Group, provides a robust, evidence-based assessment of TRACTIONās impact, demonstrating the tangible economic, health, and educational benefits of our work.
For too long, the focus has been intervening too late rather than prioritising prevention. At TRACTION, we intervene early through hands-on learning and mentoring, equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to navigate life successfully. This evaluation confirms what we have long believed: that investing in young people before they reach crisis points delivers not only life-changing personal outcomes but also measurable financial returns for society.
The focus of this report was the TRACTION āBUILDā program, which the organisation has developed over 9 years. In late 2024, TRACTION launched two innovative new programs, which provide experiences for young people alongside the āBUILDā program, and results are already indicating these have significant impact and outcomes.
The evaluation of TRACTION āBUILDā in 2024 is clear TRACTION generates $6.95 million in positive impact annually, with a return of $3.39 for every dollar spent. This report strengthens our case for philanthropic and corporate investment by demonstrating strong return on investment (ROI) and credibility in youth development practice. More importantly, it reinforces that when we provide young people with opportunities, mentorship, and support, the benefits extend far beyond the individual, positively impacting families, schools, and communities at large.
Looking ahead, this study serves as both a validation and a call to action. In 2025, as we reach more young people and deliver our innovative new programs to meet community needs, we expect this rate of return to increase significantly. This underscores the need for continued and expanded investment in prevention, ensuring that young people who might otherwise be left behind have the chance to imagine and build their own futures.
Yours Sincerely,
Annabel Prescott Chief Executive Officer
Sandy Murdoch Founder
TRACTION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE LTD
TRACTION Impact Study
Summary Report
March 2025
We at Torch Advisory Group acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and celebrate their cultures, country and spiritual connection to the land, sea and community.
Overview
Introduction
Many young people in Queensland feel unsafe, unsupported and are struggling. Often these young peoples will be socially isolated and disconnected from service systems, making it difficult to access much needed tools, resources and support.
TRACTIONās mission is to spark young peopleās potential. It pursues this mission by delivering evidence-informed, handson learning and mentoring programs, such as bike building programs. By engaging with TRACTION, participants gain valuable tools to navigate challenges, build confidence and create pathways to success.
These activities act as a key preventative factor for various challenges faced by Queenslandās young people. This translates to a variety of short-term protective outcomes, and long-term individual and societal benefits.
TRACTION has a strong understanding of the outputs and outcomes of its activities and connected data collection processes. However, it remains difficult to translate this understanding to measures of long-term impacts.
Torch Advisory Group were commissioned to independently assess TRACTIONās impact with the objective of enabling greater understanding, measurement and communication of the value supported by TRACTIONās activities.
Torch Advisory Group undertook a desktop review, collating relevant research and data from TRACTION and various government, academic and industry sources, supporting development of an impact logic model and detailed analysis.
This report presents a summary of the comprehensive, evidence-based findings of the TRACTION Impact Study.
Methodology
The study employs an impact analysis methodology, providing a means of translating the outcomes of TRACTIONās activities into monetary terms.
The methodology aligns with the rigour of best practice Cost Benefit Analysis methods to measure objective societal outcomes. As such, subjective stakeholder valuation methods have not been used. This may result in a lower impact value but enhances the validity of results.
Findings
Impacts
TRACTIONās activities generate an estimated $6.95 million in positive impact annually:
ā¢ Economic impact of $2.65 million
ā¢ Health impact of $2.37 million
ā¢ Education impact of $1.93 million
Costs
To support these outcomes, TRACTION incurs a cost of approximately $2.05 million annually.
Value
This results in a positive impact of $3.39 for every dollar spent, demonstrating the immense value TRACTIONās activities deliver for the community. Furthermore, as there are limitations on what impacts can be monetised, TRACTIONās true value is likely to be even greater.
The TRACTION impact journey
TRACTIONās targeted, personalised programs create profound change in the lives of young people experiencing disadvantage. By equipping participants with tangible skills, providing mentorship and fostering a sense of achievement, TRACTION provides empowers young people to build brighter futures.
TRACTION engages with community and schools to understand the unique needs of each group of young people based on their circumstances.
Using trained mentors TRACTION design and implement 1-day or 9-week programs, using bike building as an engagement mechanism for individual and team activities. This social and interdisciplinary curriculum empowers participants to develop their skills to manage and thrive in school, work and beyond.
After completing the program TRACTION continues to offer support, ensuring that participants stay engaged and empowered. This may include re-enrolment, referrals to support networks, or opportunities for continued learning and development, helping participants transition smoothly from the program to real-world challenges, education or career opportunities and engagement in wider community.
Each program is structured for participants to:
ā¢ Be Well: Develop confidence and capacity for positive choices, healthy habits, managing challenges, help-seeking and holistic wellbeing.
ā¢ Be Connected: Build strong connections and relationships with individuals, family, community and culture foster inclusion, belonging and resilience.
ā¢ Be Active: Develop physical literacy, safe participation and social inclusion for an active and engaged lifestyle.
ā¢ Be a Learner: Set goals for educational engagement and vocational and career pathways.
ā¢ Be Influential: Think critically and building potential for making informed and optimistic life choices.
Empowering young people to build their own future
TRACTION offers a holistic approach that addresses young people's academic, personal and emotional needs. Through team-based, hands-on activities like bike building, participants develop a sense of belonging, recognise their strengths, and build the skills and confidence needed to set goals for their future development.
TRACTION intervenes early (Years 5-7) and works towards driving long-term improvements in services for young people.
TRACTION advocates for young people who may be undersupported, marginalised, or at risk of falling through the cracks of education, health or justice systems. Its programs allow young people to move past negative labels, build their identity and connect with community.
As a result of TRACTION activities, participants show improved behaviour both at school and at home, relieving burdens for teachers and parents. This contributes to better classroom dynamics, family harmony, and fosters a positive and supportive environment for personal growth.
Impact logic model
TRACTIONās impact logic model provides a structured framework that maps the relationships between its activities and their impacts. The logic model, summarised below, captures individual and systemic changes, ensuring every activity is connected to meaningful, measurable impacts.
Program delivery
Involves hands-on teaching, mentorship, a flexible and social learning structure, and ongoing support to foster personal and academic growth
Community Engagement
Involves working with communities to address young peopleās needs, raising awareness through events and partnerships to expand opportunities for young people experiencing disadvantage
Internal operations
Focuses on maintaining consistent program delivery through robust systems, processes, and governance mechanisms, including risk management and sustainability practices
Developing skills enhances engagement with education, personal growth, work and community contribution
Mentoring builds confidence and resilience, driving personal growth and wellbeing
Relationships foster belonging, improving mental health and community connection
Advocacy challenges systemic barriers and perceptions about young people experiencing disadvantage
Safe environments build trust, which supports participation, inclusion, wellbeing and personal development
Increased economic activity
Increased employment
Improved mental health
Improved physical health
Improved self-efficacy
Reduced health system costs
Increased benefits of philanthropy
Enhanced human capital
Enhanced identity and resilience
Increased pro-social behaviour
Increased connectedness, belonging and community participation
Impacts
Total $6.95m The total value of the annual impact supported by TRACTIONās activities
Economic
The economic contribution of activities
Health
$2.37m
The positive effects on physical and mental well-being resulting in healthier lifestyles and reducing health-related risks
The direct and indirect economic contribution of TRACTIONās activities Increased economic activity
The benefit to labour of new jobs or increased wages that result from TRACTIONās activities Increased employment
Improved mental health
Improved physical health
Improved self-efficacy Reduced health system costs
The improvement in mental health and wellbeing of young people through participation in TRACTIONās programs
The improvement in physical health of young people through participation in TRACTIONās programs that teach healthy behaviours and provide the opportunity for an active, safe lifestyle
The improvement in self-efficacy through TRACTIONās locations and programs that encourage selfexpression, empowerment, and a belief in oneās ability to achieve goals and overcome challenges
The health system savings resulting from improvements in mental health and wellbeing of young people through participation in TRACTIONās programs
The improvement in personal well-being and stronger communities that results from charitable giving and philanthropic activities within TRACTIONās support network Increased benefits of philanthropy
Education
The benefits derived from improved skills, knowledge, and personal growth that enables strengthened confidence, engagement and connections at school
The development of the skills, knowledge and capabilities of young people through TRACTIONās programs and the positive influence of their improved behaviour on the broader education system
The improved sense of identity, confidence and resilience that facilitates engagement and productivity, improved academic outcomes and effectiveness of educational systems
The increase in pro-social behaviour from a reduction in crime and home or school misbehaviour which benefits family relationships, to school and the broader community Increased connectedness,
The increase in young peopleās sense of connectedness, inclusion and belonging such that it encourages participation and collaboration with school peers and the broader community
TRACTION incurs cost of $2.05 million to support $6.95 million in benefits annually. Therefore, for every dollar of cost TRACTION produces at least $3.39 of benefit.
TRACTIONās impact is significantly greater than what can be monetised. This study represents a conservative estimate of the annual benefit supported by TRACTION. TRACTION Impact Summary
Impacts
ā¢
ā¢
Impact stories: Identity and resilience
TRACTION's impact and its value to the community goes beyond that which can be expressed in monetary terms. The following case studies highlight TRACTIONās profound influence on the life trajectories, personal growth and community connection of the young people they engage.
Loganās journey with TRACTION: Building confidence and a brighter future
Before joining TRACTION, Logan struggled with bullying and disengagement from school. Frustrated and often in trouble, he preferred working alone and found it difficult to communicate with others. Traditional academics werenāt his strength, but he thrived in hands-on environments.
Enhanced identity and resilience
Through TRACTIONās Bikes and Small Motors programs, Logan found a supportive space to develop technical skills, build confidence, and improve his communication. Mentors encouraged him to ask for help and collaborate with peers, skills that extended into his schooling and helped him strengthen his reading and writing, which had been a challenge.
Logan completed Year 10 through homeschooling, achieving Aās and Bās, and soon after, secured an apprenticeship as an auto electrician. Now just a year away from qualification, he credits TRACTION for helping him gain the confidence, resilience and teamwork skills that set him up for success.
āBefore I started TRACTION, I didn't believe in myself, thatās something TRACTION taught meā
Impact stories: Connection and purpose
Mitchellās journey with TRACTION: Finding connection and purpose
Increased connectedness, belonging and community participation
For Mitchell, school was isolating. He was independent by nature and found it hard to connect with others. TRACTION changed that. Through the Bikes and Small Motors programs, he found a welcoming environment where he was not judged but instead supported and encouraged.
With hands-on learning and mentorship, Mitchell built not only technical skills but also social confidence. He learned to communicate, work in a team, and rely on others when needed. Mitchell made and kept friends from the program and this sense of belonging extended to improve his relationships at school and in the community.
Inspired by his experience, Mitchell returned to TRACTION as a mentor, eager to support others just as he had been supported. Now a fully qualified mechanic, he credits TRACTION for giving him the sense of connection and inclusion that helped him thrive both personally and professionally.
āThanks to TRACTION, it is because of them where I am today.ā
Afterword
A concluding message from TRACTION
This impact study reaffirms what we at TRACTION have always knownāearly intervention, hands-on learning, and meaningful mentorship create life-changing opportunities for young people. The findings demonstrate that our work not only transforms lives but also delivers a strong return on investment, reinforcing the case for prevention as a fiscally responsible and socially imperative strategy. With every dollar spent generating $3.39 in benefits, it is clear that investing in TRACTION is an investment in stronger communities, healthier futures, and a more inclusive society. Beyond the numbers, this study highlights the power of connection, skill-building, and empowerment in shaping young lives. It is a reminder that when we provide young people with the support they need, they thrive not just as individuals, but as engaged members of their families, schools, and communities.
As we move forward, we invite our partners, funders, and stakeholders to join us in expanding this impact. The evidence is clear: by shifting our focus toward prevention and providing young people with the tools they need to succeed, we are not only improving their futuresāwe are strengthening the future of our society as a whole.
Now is the time to invest in what works. Letās build human momentum together.
Key references
Economic Costs of Intervention and Disengagement
ā¢ How Australia Can Invest in Children and Return More (2018-19)
ā Costs of late intervention for youth issues.
ā¢ The Economic Case for Early Intervention (2017-18) ā Victoriafocused analysis of late intervention costs.
ā¢ Cost of Youth Mental Health Issues (2009) ā Economic and financial cost of youth mental health issues.
ā¢ Counting the Costs of Lost Opportunity in Australian Education (2017) ā Impacts of early school leaving and youth unemployment.
ā¢ Disengaged: Costs and Causes of Youth Disengagement in Australia (2024) ā Early intervention benefits and salary impacts.
Education and Mentoring
ā¢ SVA Perspective: Education Evidence Scan for Children and Young People Disengaged (2018) ā Effectiveness of programs for disengaged youth.
ā¢ The Case for Youth Mentoring (AHURI) (2011) ā Costs, benefits and effectiveness of mentoring programs.
ā¢ Mentoring Value for Money (2009) ā Cost analysis of mentoring in reducing crime pathways.
ā¢ Empowering Young Minds - ARACY & UNICEF (2024) āInternational and Australian benchmarks for school attendance.
ā¢ Behavioural Model of School Attendance (2014) ā First Nations drivers for school disengagement.
ā¢ The Effect of Mentoring on School Attendance and Academic Outcomes: A Randomized Evaluation of the Check & Connect Program (2020) ā Comparator evaluation for effect of mentoring on school engagement.
Youth Justice and Wellbeing
ā¢ Inquiry into Youth Justice Reform in Queensland (2024) ā Costs and outcomes of youth justice system changes.
ā¢ Improving Safety and Wellbeing of Vulnerable Children (2024) āData on young people and child protection/youth justice.
ā¢ Pathways to Preventing Youth Offending and Wellbeing (2015) āEarly intervention pathways.
ā¢ Youth Justice Report (2018) ā Older evidence and measures for reducing recidivism.
ā¢ Cost-effectiveness analysis for CYRD young people with an offending history (2023) ā Reference analysis of intervention targeted at youth offending.
ā¢ The Efficacy of Strategies to Reduce Juvenile Offending (2007) āAustralian research on effectiveness of interventions to reduce offending.
First Nations
ā¢ Education Outcomes for Young People (2013) ā Attendance as a driver for Indigenous educational outcomes.
ā¢ Positive Learning Environments for Indigenous Children and Young People (2024) ā Factors impacting Indigenous school attendance and engagement.
ā¢ Listening and Learning (Queensland Family and Child Commission) (2024) ā First Nations youth data.
ā¢ Benefits of Indigenous Education: Data Findings (2012) āBarriers to post-school study for Indigenous youth.
Theories and Frameworks
ā¢ Roadmap to Social Impact: CSI (2021) ā Step-by-step guide to planning and measuring social impact.
ā¢ Theory of Change Workbook: USAID (2022) ā Framework for developing a theory of change.
ā¢ Shifts and Flows Report (2021) ā Workplace skills for the future.
ā¢ Measuring impact: Future ready young Australians (2021) āHands on Learning impact methodology.
ā¢ CASEL Framework (2020) ā Framework for cultivate skills and environments that advance studentsā learning and development.
Other Impact and Program Evaluation Research
ā¢ Outcome Evaluation of Raise Youth Mentoring (2024) ā University of Melbourne study on mentoring program impacts.
ā¢ Positioning Mentors as Social Capital Builders (2024) ā US-based study on mentoring and youth social capital.
ā¢ Making a Difference with At-Risk Students (2017) ā US-based research on mentoring program effectiveness.
Other Modelling Tools and Inputs
ā¢ Value of statistical life (2024) ā Office of Impact Analysis (DPMC) guidance on the updated estimate of the value of a statistical life and life year.
ā¢ ABS Employee earnings release (2024) ā Data on weekly median earning of employees in QLD for use as modelling proxy.
ā¢ AIHW Reports and Data ā Various reports, data tables and other key resources informing health and wellbeing impact analysis.
ā¢ REMPLAN Economic Analysis Tool ā Input-Output modelling tool for the analysis of economic impact.
Disclaimer
Torch Advisory Group (Torch) Pty Ltd has prepared this report solely for TRACTIONās use and benefit in accordance with and for the purpose set out in our engagement letter with TRACTION dated 29 October 2024. We accept no responsibility, duty or liability to anyone other than TRACTION in connection with this report. We make no representation concerning the appropriateness of this report for anyone other than TRACTION. Should anyone other than TRACTION elect to rely on this report then they do so at their own risk. Torch does not accept any responsibility for errors and omissions, or any loss or damage as a result of any persons relying on this report for any purpose other than that for which it has been prepared in line with the agreed scope with TRACTION.
