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Decline in Australia's Used Car Market: Sales and Listings Down

Analyzing the Recent Downturn in Used Vehicle Transactions

Decline in Australia's Used Car Market: Sales and Listings Down?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), in collaboration with AutoGrab, has released the November 2025 Automotive Insights Report (AIR), revealing a significant downturn in the used car market as the year concludes.

According to the report, national used car sales fell to 193,266 vehicles in November, marking a 6.4% decrease from October figures. Concurrently, total active listings declined by 3.5% to 313,781. This trend was consistent across all major states and vehicle segments, indicating a broad cooling phase following a prolonged period of heightened activity in the used car market.

Several factors may contribute to this decline. Economic uncertainties, changes in consumer confidence, and seasonal variations often influence purchasing behaviors. Additionally, the increasing availability and affordability of new vehicles, including electric models, may be diverting potential buyers away from the used car market.

For consumers, this downturn could present opportunities. A decrease in demand may lead to more competitive pricing and better deals on used vehicles. Prospective buyers are encouraged to conduct thorough research, compare prices, and consider the total cost of ownership when making purchasing decisions.

Dealers and sellers, on the other hand, may need to adjust strategies to navigate this cooling market. This could involve offering additional incentives, flexible financing options, or focusing on high-demand vehicle segments to attract buyers.

In conclusion, the recent decline in Australia's used car market signals a shift that stakeholders should monitor closely. Both buyers and sellers can adapt to these changes by staying informed and responsive to market dynamics.

Published:Saturday, 21st Feb 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

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Mortgagor:
A person who offers to assign an asset as security (e.g. real estate) under a mortgage loan contract. The lender (mortgagee) holds the legal ownership of the security until the loan is repaid and the mortgage is discharged.