The regional communities of Australia have a remarkable capacity to come together, support one another and respond to change.

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They have been doing it since, well, forever.

Strong local relationships, a culture of volunteering and a shared commitment to place have always helped our communities navigate challenges, welcome newcomers and create a genuine sense of belonging.

Social cohesion is a critical asset when you live in regional Australia. It isn't simply about migration or diversity, but whether people feel connected to those around them, included in community life and able to participate in decisions that affect their future.

But these strengths cannot be taken for granted.

When people are under financial pressure, cannot access essential services or feel their community is being left behind, trust and belonging can quickly begin to erode.

New research from our team at the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) bears this out.

The latest in our Regional Impact Essay series, Social Cohesion and Community Sentiment in Regional Australia, reveals a telling divide: while regional Australians have stronger neighbourhood bonds, volunteer more and are more likely to trust each other than people in major cities, they are far less satisfied with democracy, government and public services.

Strong community ties are helping regional Australia withstand mounting economic and social pressures, but targeted investment is needed to sustain social cohesion.

These regional strengths could erode unless economic and service inequities are addressed.

Having limited access to health and other public services and a sense that........

© Canberra Times