Electronic Networks - Building Community, 2002

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Crisis and Transitional Housing Net (CATHNet) - Researching and testing ICT solutions for social service delivery

Brian Arley, CommunITy, Community Service and Research Centre, University of Queensland

The CATHNET project is based on the premise that the three key drivers of change and innovation in the new millennium will be technology, information and knowledge. Organisations and communities that utilise these drivers effectively will create a sustainable competitive advantage for themselves.

This paper will report on:

  1. The findings of the CATHNet review regarding its uptake and utilisation within community-based housing community groups in Goodna and Ipswich
  2. Implementation of the review's recommendations to foster greater uptake of, and participation in, CATHNet
  3. Identification of key factors impacting on policy objectives.

CATHNet involves facilitating a holistic view of housing services and a multi-faceted information system for service providers. For the user, the "single window" model is utilised, with agencies being provided with seamless access, to information on the range of government services and non-government services appropriate for their needs. For the providers of social services, they are supplied with a single view of complimentary services to theirs and the opportunity to collaborate with appropriate organisations to improve the delivery of social services within their community.

While the delivery of social services is an important aspect of an electronic community network, equally important is its ability to empower its participants and enrich their lives and to create a sense of belonging and attachment to the local community. These issues are addressed through a collaborative approach to project design, implementation and evaluation.

The collaboration of the University of Queensland Ipswich Community Service and Research Centre, The InfoXchange Inc. Technology for Social Justice and community-based housing providers is an exciting and progressive step towards securing the most suitable application of information technology in the housing sector.

This project will continue development of a web based information system where organisations providing emergency and non-emergency housing can share and access information on housing and bed availability in the Goodna, Ipswich and Logan region. It will provide facilities for data collection, research and increased communication possibilities between government, non-government agencies and individuals.

CATHNet is located at http://qld.infoxchange.net.au/cathnet/