The recruitment and retention of dentists to rural and remote areas of NSW has become an area of increasing concern. In an effort to address this issue whilst providing an extramural educational opportunity, the Faculty of Dentistry and the Department of Rural Health, have introduced a Rural Placement Program (RPP). The RPP represents a collaboration between the Faculties, the Australian Dental Association, NSW Health and the Dental Board of NSW. The 2000 Program fulfilled its aim to develop a positive attitude to rural lifestyle and dental practice, and it has had a positive influence on future career direction. 40% of the participants in 2000 are currently working in rural areas. The students made a substantial contribution to dental care in Dubbo and Broken Hill, thus benefiting the local community and local clinicians described their involvement as stimulating and rewarding. 24 students participated in the RPP2001 and 23 stated that they were "not familiar at all" with rural Australia. On completion of the RPP, the number of students reporting an interest level of 9 or higher doubled from 4 students to 8. The students provided a comprehensive range of treatment for 135 patients in rural communities and had an increased awareness of oral health issues, such as rural workforce issues, aboriginal health needs and lack of public sector funding, in rural Australia. The RPP will be extended in 2002 and 36 places will be available. Participation will be mandatory in the Graduate-entry BDent program of the Faculty of Dentistry by 2004.