The price of books in Australia...

Why are books so expensive in Australia? Yes, I know there are the local restrictions on parallel imports that is there too allow Australian publishers/book sellers to compete (which is why books such as the last Harry Potter were not being sold in the big stores at a $1 with a bag of apples).

BUT what I don't understand is why an Australian book, published in Australia should be cheaper to buy from the UK - even when postage is included.

Etcetra is published by Murdoch Books in Australia, with a list price of $59.95. The cheapest Aussie price is $55.95, plus P&P ($6), thus making it more expensive than going to the local shopping centre.

It is also published by Murdoch Books in the UK (ok - so I stretched the truth a little earlier).
It was listed on the BookDepository.co.uk at £20 (the list price - about $33 at the moment), however they can deliver this to Australia free of charge. Even Amazon.co.uk can offer it for approx $35 - including delivery....