The purpose of the organisation was to provide a focus for the development and implementation of policies which support and strengthen family life. The Office conducted research into aspects of family life, implemented special family programs such as Marriage Education, WA Family Fellowship etc, produced publications such as the Directory of Parent Support Services (WA).

The Western Australian Family Foundation was launched in August 1988 to give support to families and strengthen links which bind us as a community. It was located within the Office of the Family. Its main focus was to provide grants of up to $2000 for community groups.

The Domestic Violence Policy and Research Unit was established within the Office of the Family in 1990 - 1991 and from September 1990 responsibility for youth policy was transferred to the Office from the Youth Affairs Bureau.

The Office of the Family was abolished in March 1993. Its functions were taken over by what is now the Department for Community Development.

Under the McGowan Government, a series of Machinery of Government changes were made to the public sector creating a number of new amalgamated departments.

The following agencies were consolidated on 1 July 2017: the Department for Child Protection and Family Support; the Department of Housing (including Housing Authority); the Disability Services Commission; the communities function of the Department of Local Government and Communities; the Regional Services Reform Unit; and the regional coordination and engagement function of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs.

The Department of Communities is tasked with delivering services to families and communities in need, particularly in regional and remote areas.