Who's happy? Who's not?

Interest rates have risen, the stock market has plummeted, but Australians again report being more satisfied with their lives than ever. Eye on Australia 2008 found that the number of Australians who said they were either extremely or very satisfied increased from 63% in 2007 to 65% in 2008. This is despite the fact that the number of people who are extremely or very concerned about the potential effects of the economy has risen by 50% in the past year.

Perhaps were turning inwards, rather than tackling the more confronting issues. This year, Eye has revealed that were more involved than ever with ourselves and our families. We worry about our own money, our own families and our own health and fitness, while concerns about terrorism and loss of community have abated. The only big issue that's not about me is the environment, and even here the intensity of our concern has reduced. Safe within the circle of our families, were just getting on with life and hoping for the best.