The BoM's Aerosonde robotic aircraft , has flown non-stop 3200 kilometres across the Atlantic Ocean. Small long range aircraft could be used for military observation, early warning and communicates relay, in place of large manned aircraft. They would also have application for civilian crop observation, bush fire and flood observation. One neglected aspect of use of the Internet is the need to retain the sense of community between people. This applies as much to a military organisation, as to a local community or rural produce group.
Research is needed as to what training, tools and techniques are best to allow for group cohesion.
Conclusion IT can assist the rural sector. Governments need to understand the myths of computing which impede policy making. IT development is rapid, but Australian researchers can advise what is coming, in time for policy makers to get ready. Big IT companies are not IT experts and small start-ups can be encouraged. The urban biases built into IT development can be overcome.