A key inhibitor of family development in the Kimberley and Pilbara is the problematic use of alcohol, and use of illicit drugs. This use constrains the effectiveness of early childhood, education, health and other human services, and works to diminish family resilience. Alcohol and drug-related medical conditions are also major causes of avoidable deaths in custody.

With the support of local communities, the State Government has in place a range of restrictions on the sale, possession and consumption of alcohol in many parts of the Pilbara and Kimberley. It also provides a range of mental health, and drug and alcohol services, including treatment and prevention services. Health and other agencies are also working to address the impact of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). However, there are opportunities for agencies and other service providers to improve 
regional coordination.

The State Government will consult with communities that wish to introduce or strengthen restrictions on alcohol supply and consumption. It is also proposing to work with local governments and Aboriginal leaders and communities on the potential for region-wide alcohol restriction strategies to complement and connect locality-specific restrictions.

Complementing the State Government’s alcohol supply-side restrictions, in April 2016, the Commonwealth Government commenced a trial in the East Kimberley to ensure welfare payments are not used to purchase alcohol or drugs, or to gamble (the Cashless Debit Card Trial). The East Kimberley is the only trial site in Western Australia. The State Government will continue to work closely with the Commonwealth Government to provide practical local support for the East Kimberley trial and its evaluation.

In its 2016–17 Budget, the Commonwealth Government also announced a Compulsory Rent Deduction Scheme, under which occupants of public and some community housing who receive income support payments or Family Tax Benefit will have their rent and related tenancy costs deducted from their payments and automatically transferred to their housing provider. This  scheme will reduce the likelihood of individuals accumulating rental debt, which should improve household stability, and decrease evictions and the chance of harm to families (particularly children) from homelessness or overcrowding.