Rural and Outback Communities

• Christians realised that their missionary work needed to expand beyond the city and reach out to vulnerable members of the community who need their help.

  Christians sent missionaries and community support members into rural areas of Australia to help develop social services for the outback.


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• The Australian Inland Mission (Presbyterian)

  Began in 1912

  Reverend John Flynn wrote a report to his superiors about the problems of offering ministry services to people living in remote areas

  Reported areas of need including isolation, poor medical care, spiritual guidance and ministry.

  AIM also provided educational facilities, boarding hostels and aged care

  Provided medical and social support across Central Australia and Northern Territory
• The Royal Flying Doctor Services (Protestant)


  Established in 1928

  John Flynn and Clifford Peel created the royal doctor service

  Supports people in rural areas medically
• Bush Brotherhoods (Anglican)


  Established in 1897

  Ministered to the people of the outback

  Anglican Priests

  Gave religious instructions in schools

  Gave sacraments (Baptism, Marriage, Funeral services.)

  Conducted church services anywhere they could
• Bush Church Aid Society (Protestant) 


  Began in 1919

  Assisted with correspondence schools

  Attempted to copy the bush brotherhood

  Allowed a greater role for women in nursing, working as hostel sisters

  Established hospitals and hostels

  Preached to the children in rural communities
• Catholic Sisters of Mercy (Catholic)


  Provided education for outback communities