Hi Tikka, livo
I live in Newcastle so I'll share my thoughts.
If its any use, I actually do my shops for BIR spices in Broadmeadow
http://www.kairaliasiangroceries.com.au/Its opposite the korean fried chicken place.
I've been to a few fair of the grocers here in Newcastle. I think I know where some good ones are and I reckon the above is best for BIR.
If you like Korean/Japanese then there's a great place in Lambton.
There's also a guy who sells his own blends in Newcastle mall. Interesting place but not really where I'd shop.
Regarding Asian restaurants, sadly I can't recommend anything whatsoever in the area. Its overall poor. Even by Australian standards Newcastle can't even do a decent Thai. Adelaide seems to do that best.
Anyway that's all not an issue as I make BIR and Thai at home.
Newcastle is dominated by American style hipster burger places which is what they do well. Its what people like here, which is somewhat different to the tastes of other towns.
Cheers
Chilli