You can be a member of Country Labor as well as the ALP, one does not affect the other. Country Labor branches act as normal branches of the NSW Branch of the ALP.
Country Labor History
Dedicated to representing country people in NSW and recognising the specific challenges faced by people living in the country, the NSW Branch of the ALP formed the Country Labor Party to do just that.
NSW Labor has a proud history of representing the people of Country NSW. When the Labor Party first formed in 1891, 19 of the 35 Labor Parliamentarians elected were representing country areas.
During the 1990’s many candidates ran successfully under the banner of the Country Labor Team. At the same time the National Party were debating whether or not to include ‘Country’ back into their name and declined to do so. Country Labor was created to formalise the commitment of the NSW Labor Party working with and representing the views of rural and regional NSW.
Get involved with Country Labor
Country Labor is guided by the objectives of the Rural Platform.
“Labor’s rural policy is directed towards the enhancement and conservation of the resources of the state in order that:
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The long-term viability and productivity of primary industries dependent on natural resources will be ensured;
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Economic and social benefits will accrue to all people who live and work in rural and provincial NSW.
Within the terms of the general objectives in the areas of employment, health, education, transport, communications and essential social amenities to ensure the achievement and citizens in the state, regardless of geographical location; industries which add value to primary production will be expanded and developed.”
Recruiting members to the Party and publicising the good work of the Labor movement is an important activity of Country Labor and its members.
Recruitment brings new people and perspectives to your Country Labor Branch making your meeting more dynamic and interesting. Recruitment Drives and events can be a great social activity for the current members of your Branch as well.
Country Shows & Field Days
Field Days are a great way to let the community know how Country Labor represents the people of Country NSW. You can get involved by volunteering to attend one of the Country Labor Field Days.
At the Field Days, you can meet with other Country Labor members in the Country Labor Tent. There will be lots of pamphlets and material for you to distribute to people who might be interested.
Recruitment Drives
Recruitment Drives are a great way of keeping active branches and bring more people to your events. Each Country Labor Branch should come up with a Branch Recruitment Strategy. There are some great tips in the Branch Recruitment Guide which you can download at the bottom of this page.
Be sure to let your local Member of Parliament, Duty Senator or MLC know about your plans as they can be very helpful with ideas for your Recruitment Drive.