Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
The CAFS Data Collection and Reporting Guide (PDF, 2.9 MB) explains what information needs to be captured in the CAFS program, and how to collect and report data. It includes how to link outcomes identified in program logics to the Data Exchange (DEX), how to measure and report client outcomes using SCORE and minimum reporting requirements.
The CAFS Data Collection and Reporting Guide should be used alongside the below DEX resources.
All CAFS service providers report their data through DEX. The only exception is the community sector coordination service type, which is reported using the Community Sector Coordination Reporting Tool.
DEX is a web-based platform hosted by the Department of Social Services (DSS). It ensures standardised reporting of client demographics, service delivery outputs and client and community outcomes.
CAFS service providers can report their data in DEX using three upload methods:
"inDEX" is a tool to help you find DEX help fast. The tool is free and optional to use. There's no need to ‘submit’ results and no user data is collected.
For easy access, create a bookmark by opening the inDEX tool, clicking the 'star' icon in the search bar and then clicking ‘Done’.
The DEX Quick Start Guide will help you to:
For technical guidance on setting up and reporting in DEX:
For technical guidance on uploading your data into DEX:
DSS provides DEX training resources to help you set up and perform different tasks.
They include:
Use the category filters at the top of each DSS page to narrow your search to the task you need assistance with.
Use the DEX Quick Start Guide to start setting up DEX.
You will need to set up your Digital Identity to access DEX. Follow the instructions in the factsheet Data Exchange – Digital Identity.
Each user will need to complete the DEX System User Access Request Form.
For more help, explore Digital Identity and RAM Frequently Asked Questions.
Refer to Log in to the DEX web-based portal.
You will need to set up your organisation, and create an outlet for each contract.
Prior to entering client information into DEX, familiarise yourself with the privacy requirements:
Inform clients about how their privacy will be protected:
Once familiar with the CAFS reporting requirements, particularly the minimum dataset, you can start reporting in DEX.
If reporting in DEX for the first time, complete these short learning modules:
These modules take you through each step of the process. It is self-paced which allows you to complete the steps for your outlet whilst you work through the module.
Explore the CAFS Data Collection and Reporting Guide for detailed information on measuring outcomes in the CAFS program.
CAFS service providers have the flexibility to measure outcomes in several different ways. You can:
The CAFS guide to developing surveys provides guidance on developing initial and follow up surveys to measure outcomes.
To record a SCORE assessment, explore Add a SCORE assessment.
The optional Outcomes e-Tool can help service providers plan how they will collect and report outcomes in DEX.
You can use a validated tool to measure client outcomes. You can then translate those outcomes into SCORE.
Use the SCORE Translation Matrix to convert validated measurement tools into SCORE. The SCORE Translation Matrix has already translated eleven commonly used validated tools into SCORE.
DEX reports allow you to access, explore and export your DEX data.
To learn more about what reports are available and how to access them, explore Access, explore and export your Data Exchange data.
DEX reports can be used to demonstrate performance and check the quality of your data. To learn more, explore Using data in the CAFS program: how to understand and use DEX reports.
The CAFS DEX Report for Service Providers is available in DEX. Alongside your CAFS program data, the report allows you to continue accessing your TEI legacy data to help identify shifting needs and support flexible service delivery.
The DEX Files were a series of online sessions hosted by DCJ to support the sector with the DEX transition from the TEI program to the CAFS program. These sessions were recorded and are available below.
Who this is for
Session recordings and slides
1. Key changes from TEI to CAFS program (21 April 2026)
2. How to update Outlet names and add CAFS program activities (5 May 2026)
3. When to report a client as Identified, De-identified or Unidentified (19 May 2026)
4. Demo of the new “CAFS DEX report for Service Providers” (2 June 2026)
5. Demo of new ‘Outcomes e-Tool’ and ‘Outcomes Plan template’ (16 June 2026)
6. Demo of the “Data Quality Report” (30 June 2026)
7. Demo of “inDEX” a new tool to find DEX help fast (14 July 2026)
For general DEX queries including MyID and RAM, contact your internal DEX support staff or DSS through their DEX Helpdesk at dssdataexchange.helpdesk@dss.gov.au
For specific CAFS queries, talk to your DCJ contract manager first, or email us at CAFS@dcj.nsw.gov.au
Last updated: