Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

RURAL AFFAIRS
Our vision
Labour has a proud record of delivering to our rural communities. The last Labour
Government appointed a Minister for Rural Affairs and undertook many initiatives that
acknowledged and promoted the importance of strong rural communities in a country
dependent on primary production for its export earnings.
The investment and coordination in core government services and infrastructure through
roading, telecommunications, health and education allowed strong growth and a renewal of
purpose for many rural towns. The establishment of Heartland Service Centres and
broadband to rural schools opened the way for new opportunities to grow communities. The
Rural Proofing Policy introduced by Labour requires all government policymakers to consider
the effects of policy implementation on rural people. It is being slowly taken up across core
government agencies, reducing the anomalies often created by well-meaning but difficult-todeliver
mainstream policies.
Labour will continue to work with all primary and rural industry sectors to provide support and
infrastructure where needed. Healthy vibrant rural communities are at the heart of rural
productivity, and government policies that give confidence to the people living in the regions
is essential.
Appointment of a Minister for Rural Affairs
Labour appointed a Minister for Rural Affairs in its last term of government. Issues such as
Walking Access, establishment of Heartland Centres and the implementation of a Rural
Proofing policy for government policy makers were tasks that required a broad rural focus.
National on becoming government eliminated the portfolio and as a result rural advocacy in
Cabinet has failed on many occasions. Most countries with a strong rural population focus
understand the need for advocacy and representation at Ministerial level.
Labour will reappoint a Minister for Rural Affairs who will cover a wide range of rural
and provincial issues.
Rural infrastructure
Labour in government significantly boosted funding in the provision of rural services.
Coordination of services through the development of Heartland Service Centres supported
the revitalization of many small communities.
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