"Decentralization" is not a dirty word

With all the debate about urban sprawl around Adelaide and the land grab of good arable farmland, nobody has ever mentioned "de-centralization" as a possible solution.  I can remember when many country towns were thriving entities with schools, hospitals, police stations and lots of sporting activities.  Then, for reasons not clear to me, "centralization" became the new buzz word.  The trains stopped, doctors and teachers no longer wanted to go to the country, businesses closed, shops were vacant and the young ones had to move to the city to find work.  Now surely, with local and state government incentives and support, some of these towns could one again flourish.  There are many benefits to living in a country town.  Housing is cheaper, rental for commercial properties is cheaper and in some instances the basic infrastructure e.g. schools, banks are still there.  Classroom sizes in country schools are generally smaller, so more one-on-one with the teacher.  There is usually great community spirit and lots of sports activities.  After living in a country town there is no way I could go back to city living.  It is just a shame that more people don't get that chance.