TWO lobby groups representing the health interests of rural communities say a hung parliament could mean a better deal for people in the bush.
Three country-based independents will have the balance of the power in the new parliament following Saturday's federal election.
The Rural Doctors Association said that could mean more money for the bush.
"Those that live in rural Australia have worse (health) outcomes than those... in urban areas, and die sooner," association president Nola Maxfield told ABC Radio today.
The group representing regional health professionals said the focus of any deal to form government should centre on the sustainability of rural Australia.
"The infrastructure and services available in rural areas are key determinants of health and wellbeing," National Rural Health Alliance chair Jenny May said in a statement.
Some retailers are concerned the political stalemate could affect consumer confidence.
However, a major business group said caretaker periods didn't tend to disrupt the wider economy.
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Peter Anderson said the economy wouldn't stop.
"We need to get on with business," he said.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said Labor would deliver better telecommunications to the bush - a key concern flagged by the independents.
Only 10 per cent of Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's $6 billion broadband plan would be spent in regional areas over a first term of government, he said.
"This man (Mr Abbott) is locking in a digital divide, denying millions of... rural Australians access to future health and education services," he said.
"He is... treating... rural Australians like second-class citizens," Senator Conroy said, noting Labor's plan would give high-speed broadband to all Australians."
