Background The family provides the main support network when a young woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, yet few studies investigate the experience of family support. This research examined the strengths and resources used by families of young women (under 50 years of age) with breast cancer. Method Using the Resiliency Model of Family Stress, a quantitative analysis of family strengths and resources was undertaken using a composite survey. The sample consisted of 111 participants: 64 family members and 47 women with breast cancer recruited from five oncology units in hospitals in Queensland. Results Family members and the women displayed similar strengths and resources. Family strengths were closely associated with the family use of resources. Influencing factors were communication and family commitment and the age of family members. Conclusion Family strengths influenced the family's use of resources. The family's use of external resources was altered by family communication styles and how the family worked together.