The YWLMP differs from most other leadership programmes in that it comprises a combination of training, mentoring and networking components. It was piloted in three regional locations – the Wheatbelt (Western Australia (WA), Wide Bay Burnett (Queensland) and Gippsland (Victoria) – from February to October 2007 at a total cost of $365,740.
The key aims of the evaluation were to assess the effectiveness, efficiency and quality of the pilot projects and provide advice as to how the programme might be structured and strengthened should it be rolled out nationally. The evaluation comprised in-depth interviews with project management and staff, young women participating in the programme (mentees), their mentors, the conduct of the first wave of a three year longitudinal study of the mentees, and a review of key literature and documentation.