Evaluating the Innovator Training Program: Strengthening Evidence‐Based Practice and Building Implementation Capability in the Australian Aged Care Workforce

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the outcomes for individuals who completed an Innovator Training Program (ITP) funded by the Commonwealth Government of Australia and delivered by Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA). The program was designed to build best-practice implementation and change management capability among the Australian aged care workforce. The intent was to drive sustainable innovation in aged care settings by using evidence-based knowledge and best-practice implementation methods to address work challenges in real time. METHODS: Participants enrolled in the ITP, between April 2022 and April 2023, participated in a multi-methods program evaluation. Quantitative data were collected via pre- and post-training surveys based on validated tools. Qualitative data were gathered through immediate post-program interviews and follow-up interviews at 6- and 12-month post-training. Descriptive statistics and McNemar-Bowker Exact Tests were used for quantitative analysis; thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in participants' confidence to adopt evidence into practice (p < 0.001), research skills (p < 0.001) and mentoring capacity (p < 0.001). Participants reported increased ability to integrate research into practice, develop project plans and influence organisational change. Qualitative findings highlighted enhanced leadership and collaboration skills, and career development, with some participants assuming new roles post-training. CONCLUSIONS: The ITP was associated with improved confidence, skills and capacity among participants to use evidence, and to plan sustainable implementation projects, providing the aged care workforce with skills to contribute to aged-care reform. With recognition of the small sample and reliance on self-report, further research is needed to examine longer term impacts on practice and organisational outcomes.