Managing Tensions in Professional Statutory Practice: Living and Working in Rural and Remote Communities

Abstract

This study will explore the management of tensions in work-life balances for professionals not only having statutory responsibilities in health, education, human and police services, but also living in the rural and remote communities they serve. It will also investigate the views of community members impacted by their work. It aims to generate new knowledge about: how professionals and Society for the Provision of Education in Rural Australia ABN 282 727 044 01 6 their local communities can forge productive links to enhance collaboration and service delivery; and factors contributing to professionals' training, recruitment and retention in such communities. Delivering essential health, education and human services in rural and remote communities remains a critical problem for Australia. When professionals have mandatory responsibilities (in child protection, law enforcement or mental health matters), tensions can arise between workers and the community in which they live. The study will offer solutions to the complex medical, legal and social issues that arise for different professional groups in the discharge of their duties. It will increase current knowledge about the nature of their roles and responsibilities in small communities, and about improving professional practice and retention, leading to improved service delivery and outcomes for individuals, families and communities. This research project also aligns with the Queensland Police Service strategic priorities for 2009- 10, under the key output areas of Community Safety and Engagement, and Professional Standards and Ethical Practice. This 3-year project uses both qualitative and quantitative methods to map the terrain of rural and remote statutory work, to explore the nature of the relationships between professionals and communities and examine how professionals manage ethical and allegiance conflicts which arise.