Editorial policy

Rural Community News aims to be accurate, independent and clear about what its words and images can establish. We distinguish explanation from opinion and correct material when it is shown to be wrong.

Accuracy and context

We check names, dates and factual statements against suitable information before publication and take care not to turn a local example into a claim about all rural communities. Where an account is uncertain or a subject varies by place, we say so. Readers can send a correction through the Contact page; we review the point and amend material when warranted.

Independence

Editorial decisions are made separately from commercial arrangements. A partnership does not buy editorial conclusions, and a contributor or partner cannot require a favourable account. We aim to describe the basis of a claim plainly and avoid suggesting that an opinion is established fact.

Partner material

Paid, sponsored or otherwise partner-supported material is clearly labelled where readers encounter it. Partner links and placements are identified as such, and are kept distinct from editorial recommendations. A label should make the relationship understandable rather than obscure it.

Illustrations

Some illustrations may be generated with artificial intelligence. Where that applies, we label the image so readers can distinguish an illustration from documentary photography. Illustrations are not evidence that a particular person, event or place appeared as shown.