Australia has the highest residential rate of solar panel usage in the world; about 15% of homes already have them. And this figure is set to grow. As solar batteries grow more affordable, The Climate Council predicts that by 2018, getting off-grid will become a cost-competitive way to stay connected.

Just off Melbourne’s über-cool Brunswick Street, hipsters are queuing outside cult café Smith & Deli. But while the menu might be based on New York-style cuisine – pastrami sandwiches and home-cooked lasagne – here, things are a little different. Everything sold at Smith & Deli is 100% vegan.

Half of Aussies say buying local is the most important thing to do to strengthen the economy. And it's not just older generations shopping with their local grocer – 20% of Gen Y support local businesses by promoting them online. Why are Aussies turning down the big boys in favour of smaller brands?

The travel industry thrives on the pursuit of happiness, but just how far will people go to ensure they are healthy as well? All the way to Australia, as it turns out. The healthy holiday industry is now worth $438.6 billion a year, and Australia is enticing travellers with its ‘wild bush luxury’, ‘indigenous ingredients’ and health-focussed hotels.