Outlining the opposition Labor Party's direction in health policy, this presentation describes a 'long-term vision for health' in rural Australia. Issues considered include: removal of duplication and inconsistencies between different levels of government in order to use limited health resources for patient based health services; Indigenous health; the importance of health promotion; and the prevention of chronic and preventable diseases such as heart disease and obesity. Also discussed are the effects of health and education on economic productivity and growth. The importance of evidence-based, long-term policy is highlighted, as are the particular health issues facing people who live in rural areas.