Stephanie Gardiner

The Senate inquiry into branch closures across rural Australia released its final report, after the committee spent a year travelling across the country hearing about the effects on everyday life and business when a rural bank shuts its doors.

South Australian wedding dress couturier Nikki Atkinson has tapped into the fine, soft qualities of Merino wool to launch a bespoke wedding dress brand capturing the hearts of country couples.

Sendle CEO says the move would boost regional and rural business, lower shipping costs and improve service.

Regional businesses were also more concerned about the rising costs of goods or services, with 73% in country areas registering their worries compared to 64% in the cities.

New figures show regional migration was 11% higher than pre-pandemic levels, in part due to more than 90,000 job vacancies in country areas.

Australia could add $44 billion to the economy if it invested equally in female-led startups and businesses, Queensland's chief entrepreneur says.

An inquiry is examining the impact of accelerated bank closures across country Australia and will hear from councils and banks alike.

The nation must act quickly if it is to become a leader in the opportunities offered by country Australia.