Governments recognise the importance of research, data and evaluation in providing an evidence base to inform continuous improvement in policy as well as in program design and delivery.  A strong evidence base is required to:

• Ensure a better understanding of demand and supply of disability services;
• Inform decisions by government on the most appropriate response to meet needs;
• Support confidence of the community in the capacity and outcomes of the service systems; and
• Monitor government efforts and validate further reforms.

Under the National Disability Agreement all governments agreed to ‘fund and pursue research’ that provides an evidence base for national policy and reform directions.