Internet Resources For Rural Australians

The internet is a rapidly growing presence in rural Australia, and apart from it's obvious applications for entertainment, education and communication, it also has many tools available to support rural Australians.

Far from being a 'global' resource with no real local applications, the internet is now a virtual goldmine of up to date agricultural developments, land and farming issues, property advice, and support for rural families and their associated business interests.

It can also provide a valuable research tool for rural retail and/or small business, as well as the rural family, with information available at a glance on anything from tax issues to roadmaps, and websites owned by rural folk in every country you can imagine (and some that you can't !).

The ideal way to start your research on what facilities and services are available to rural Australians is by browsing the websites below. Although these are just a few of the many websites available on each subject, each has a good base of information in the relevant area.


www.infarmation.com.au - This Australian website includes news and advice in the areas of livestock, crops, dairy, energy & fuel, Government and industry, finance, insurance, real estate, employment and technology. Included is also a commodity prices link, a forum for open discussion between landholders on related issues, and a 'breaking news' section for the big issues. Link


www.agric.nsw.gov.au - The website of the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, this information-filled site covers topics such as the current drought, animal diseases and preventions, bushfire and emergency information, and links to such valuable organisations as the "Rural Women’s' Network". It additionally provides advice on budgeting, marketing, irrigation and farm management. Link


www.rlpb.org.au - The Rural Lands Protection Board website is full of invaluable information on landholder responsibilities, animal health, disaster relief and stock management. Free brochures are available on controlling pest animals and insects, and links are provided to our local Grafton office as well as Local Government, State Government and industry corporation websites. Link


www.raa.nsw.gov.au - The New South Wales Rural Assistance Authority works with the Commonwealth and State Governments to administer assistance to rural producers and small businesses. Their website enables direct application for information or assistance under the current schemes published, including 'Drought Assistance' and 'Natural Disaster' Loans, as well as providing agricultural news from around the globe. Link