By examining and analysing the practice of Community Arts Network via a series of case studies, Kasat explains how the organisation has built relationships and gained trust with Aboriginal communities. She finds that CACD amplifies marginalised voices, enabling them to tell their own stories, which provides social benefits at both an individual and community level. This, she observes, strengthens communities, so that they are better able to effect change. In this way, she argues, CACD has the potential to transform the lives of individuals and communities.

This thesis also provides historical information about both the development of community arts in Australia, and of Community Arts Network.