However, for those who want to remain in rural areas, a degree is not always the most relevant qualification. Employees with skilled vocational qualifications are more likely to be in demand than someone with a university degree. This reflects the fact that farming and service industries make up a large proportion of rural economies. Similar proportions of couples had both partners working. This difference is consistent with the different types of employment available in each area.
Rural families have income support needs for the same reasons as urban families.
This is consistent with the higher unemployment rates in towns and the higher proportions of people in urban areas eligible for the age pension. Between rural and urban areas dependency levels on government benefits varies considerably by family type. This is likely to reflect fewer employment opportunities and child care facilities.