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ImageThe mortality rate in rural areas is higher than in urban areas, due to the high rates of cancer and injury such as from farm machinery.  High rates of smoking and alcohol consumption are also present in rural communities.  The state of general health has implications for emotional and mental wellbeing.

The state of physical health in rural Australia is considerably worse than in Australian cities.  To find out more, visit DoctorConnect or the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

  • Death rates are 10% higher in regional areas but 50% higher in remote areas.
  • Mortality in Aboriginal communities is three times higher than in non-Aboriginals.  Aboriginal mortality is a major factor in explaining the higher mortality rate in remote areas, but does not influence mortality in regional areas to the same extent.  (AIHW 2003)
  • Death from injury or poisoning is 1.2 to 1.4 times higher in regional areas, and 1.5 – 2.4 times higher in remote areas.  Similar deaths are four times more frequent in Aboriginal communities.  (AIHW 2003).  
  • Major factors influencing health levels and mortality rates include: different age structure, poor health in Aboriginal populations, lack of access to medical services and lifestyle factors (e.g. higher rates of smoking).
  • Social disadvantage is a social determinant of ill-health.