An evaluation of a trial of a cashless debit card (CDC) for income support payments in two remote communities, Ceduna and surrounds (South Australia) and the East Kimberley region (Western Australia). 

The CDC trial aimed to reduce the levels of harm underpinned by alcohol consumption, illicit drug use and gambling by limiting trial participants’ access to cash and preventing the purchase of alcohol or gambling products (other than lottery tickets). A large majority of participants in each trial site identified as being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

This report presents the final findings of the evaluation of the CDC trial which addressed the following questions. 

• What have been the effects of the CDCT on program participants, families and the broader community?
• Have there been any circumvention behaviours that have undermined the effectiveness of the CDCT?
• Have there been any other unintended adverse consequences?
• What lessons can be learnt to improve delivery and to inform future policy? 

Key findings

1. The trial has been effective in reducing alcohol consumption and gambling, and there are indicators of a reduction in illicit drug use.
2. There is some evidence of a reduction in harms associated with alcohol, gambling and drug use.
3. There is limited evidence of an improvement in perceptions of safety at the trial sites.
4. The trial had widespread positive spill-over effects.
5. Many trial participants initially had negative perceptions of the trial but acceptance improved over time.
6. Many trial participants experienced complications and limitations when using CDCs but these issues ameliorated over time with familiarity and the supports that were put in place.