I think it is unwise to compare simply the dollar figures. Tax, hidden taxes (compulsory health insurances etc), and costs of living need to be taken into account. The easiset comparison is usually private home ownership. I think those figures would give a more realistic comparison.
I just googled, Grocery prices and supermarket comparison, The story on fastest growing food cost came up as well, Transport and water shortage was the leading factor, But have a look at fruit and veg, The 35% I came up with was base the docket my wife gave me of $132.84 Same list out of Aus was $39 Aus$ more.
Brent: That is really interesting? Are you able to post some sources for that? I wonder if water shortages in the future in Oz will affect food prices as well. I think most of our wheat comes from there.Dennis: I think you're probably correct. Although 3News reported last night that the gap was $180 in 2005 and $130 in 2008. That's interesting.