Strong and vibrant rural communities support the success of our major export industries and growth in international visitors.

Our rural communities need Government to help provide:

• essential services
• lasting infrastructure
• access to information and communications. 

Rural proofing means to consider the challenges faced by the rural sector when designing and implementing Government policy.

A 'rural proofing lens' asks policy makers to look at what they are proposing, and take into account the rural community's:

• low population density
• isolation
• reliance on the primary sector for employment.

Follow the rural proofing guide when developing your policy, which takes you through the following 7 steps:

• Confirm your policy objectives.
• Identify benefits and implications for the rural community.
• Seek advice from relevant rural contacts and organisations.
• Assess the implications.
• Consider mitigation measures.
• Make adjustments.
• Keep parties updated.