We need other areas to fill the hole left by slowing consumer spending. Luckily mining investment and exports are increasing, which will help plug the gap.

Developments in New Zealand are of little relevance to Australia, so won't have a lasting impact.

You need to put effort into determining the return, which is largely linked to the risk of the borrower.

Rising fuel prices will keep a lid on consumer spending for some time, slowing economic growth. The central bank will keep interest rates on hold.

The situation is far healthier. The risk of another Asian crisis is very low.

It's consistent with an economy that's starting to pull back up in Korea, with a bit of consumer demand starting to come through again. I would expect the unemployment rate will start to decline and will fall further.