For far too long the inner-city suburbs have been setting the agenda of many political parties throughout the country and those policy settings have more often than not, not been conducive to the regions.

One of the lessons from the weekend is that as a political party you may consider that setting policy platforms based on inner city and marginal suburban seats is the way to retain or win Government, however the reality is somewhat different.

It is true that seats may be gained within those areas, however that can be easily offset by losses in regional and rural seats.

In the aftermath of the election we are quickly seeing the rhetoric switch to one that does focus on the regions, a dawning if you will, that we do count, and we do definitely vote.

The regions rightfully are seeking and demanding that they receive the same consideration as their city cousins, health care, education opportunities, employment opportunities and infrastructure spending.

We all accept that we live and work in a large country and that there will be some level of difference, but that should not mean that there is significant dislocation between city and country.

The sad fact is that over some time there has been a growing belief, that the reality is, that regions are not given fair and equal treatment, some recent policies only served to reinforce that view.

People living and working in these areas are by their nature down to earth and committed, they work hard and rightfully expect a fair return on their effort.

They do not seek handouts, but rather a hand up, they are by nature self-starters and entrepreneurial in nature.

In many ways rural and regional people are the backbone of our great country, the contribution ironically to the lifestyle of those who live in large cities is significant.

Too often this simple fact is overlooked, not only by political parties but those who live in the cities and suburbs.

This election may have just changed that perception, or at the very least given it a mighty shakeup.

Post Saturday there is a realisation that we do have a voice and we are engaged in the National conversation and just as importantly the recognition that we vote, and we will express our views through the ballot box.

The TFGA provide a united voice for the state's farmers on a range of issues. For more information on the TFGA visit www.tfga.com.au