Menges, Jack, Caltabiano, Marie, and Clough, Alan (2026) A community-driven evaluation of the Reset model: a trauma-informed program for First Nations men. Australian Aboriginal Studies (1). pp. 55-76.

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Abstract

Reset (Remote Environment Skills, Employment and Training) is a trauma-informed employment and training program facilitated primarily by veterans of the Australian Defence Force for First Nations men in the remote Cape York community of Aurukun. This study draws on previous community-led research and aims to understand the mechanisms of the Reset model and evaluate it against self-determined goals and definitions of the Aurukun community. To understand the model, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six facilitators of the program, with themes being mapped against community goals. Findings indicate that the model effectively supports the restoration of male identity, specifically the roles of provider, protector and leader, by creating a ‘neutral ground’ that fosters social cohesion across historical clan divisions. The unique therapeutic alliance leverages a shared ‘warrior identity’ to address the impacts of intergenerational trauma and systemic economic exclusion. The evaluation presented in this paper demonstrates the transformative potential of community-driven interventions that prioritise cultural role restoration over punitive, deficit-based narratives. The research highlights the benefits of community-driven evaluations focused on resilience metrics. Implications for policy and potentially transferable aspects of the program are also discussed.

Item ID:	92077
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	0729-4352
Keywords:	community-driven evaluation, Reset model, trauma-informed program
Copyright Information:	© Aboriginal Studies Press.
Date Deposited:	01 Jun 2026 06:44
FoR Codes:	52 PSYCHOLOGY > 5203 Clinical and health psychology > 520304 Health psychology @ 100%
SEO Codes:	21 INDIGENOUS > 2101 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community services > 210101 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community service programs @ 100%
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