Amid global stock market uncertainty, gold prices have surged and mums and dads investors have flocked to buy into bullion.

Australia’s wheat growers look set to produce a bumper 2008-2009 crop, according to commodities forecasters.

Along with China, India is one of the fastest growing and potentially largest economies in the world. Its energy needs are huge and growing, as is its appetite for Australian coking coal.

Surfing is not just a way of life in Australia but a multi-billion dollar business with its roots set firmly in the vagabond surfer culture.

According to Sydney Water figures, every time a car is washed conventionally, 180 litres of water goes straight down the drain. It’s little wonder that waterless wash and detail services have flourished in recent years.

The most popular Australian real estate investment clearly has been residential property but the pitfalls are numerous so, how does one make a wise investment and when is the right time to sell out?

One in 12 Australian households now own a holiday home, and the number is growing quickly as it becomes the preferred investment for baby boomers, sea changers and some savvy investors.

Opus Capital Group’s 16th investment fund is geared towards maximising investors’ returns through adding value to carefully selected property assets.

Australia’s $4.9 billion annual export beef industry could be about to take a hit from American beef exporters as a result of Korea easing restrictions on US beef. Lee Jenson reports.

Australia’s fledgling native foods industry is worth an estimated $14 million* annually. However after years of development, research and canvassing the aisles of food fairs around the world, those involved in the industry believe Australia’s unique native plants, seeds and fruits are poised for massive expansion.

Indigenous Australians have used painting in ceremony and storytelling for thousands of years. But it’s only recently Australian indigenous art has been recognised as a truly modern and dynamic movement, capable of commanding top prices at auction, as Fiona Collins reports.

Australian Property Growth Fund grew profits and net assets in the six months to December 31, 2007, putting the fund in a good position to weather the global property market shakeout of 2008.

Australia is one of the fastest growing franchise nations in the world, with more than 600,000 people employed by franchises in over 72,000 workplaces across the country.