Conceptualising diversification as a development path for a sustainable future in rural and regional Australia: Insight from local community leaders

Abstract

In the last few decades, rural and regional communities in Australia have faced challenges on a number of fronts, prompting recognition of the need to address economic, social and ecological sustainability in non-metropolitan areas. Through purposive sampling, 28 local community leaders and residents in the Darling Downs region in Queensland, Australia participated in four semi-structured focus groups discussing the opportunities and challenges facing their communities. This paper explores their perceptions about economic development through diversification and the prospective challenges for future growth of their communities. The results highlight the need to create balance between new industry (mining, tourism) and the existing agriculture sector, with local leaders emphasising the importance of development that respects the heritage, culture and lifestyle characteristics that uniquely define rural and regional communities.