New vehicle sales in the Australian market for the month of April 2020 were today announced by Tony Weber, chief executive of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
“A total of 38,926 sales were recorded for the month. This figure represents a fall of 48.5 per cent over the same period last year (75,550 sales), and the largest single decrease of any month since VFACTs figures were first recorded in 1991.
Year to date figures for April totalled 272,287 sales, down from 344,088 in 2019, which equates to a 20.9 per cent decline.
“Clearly, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major influence on the April sales result, and reflects a downturn in the broader economy right across the country,” Weber said.
“Figures recently released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics1 show that 31 per cent of Australian citizens have experienced a decrease in income due to the pandemic,” Weber said.
“In addition 72 per cent of Australian businesses reported that reduced cash flow is expected to have an adverse impact on business over the next two months.
“These conditions inevitably impact consumer confidence and purchase decisions.”
The Australian new vehicle market has been under stress for some time, with April 2020 representing the 25th consecutive month of declining sales on a year-on-year basis (for example April 2020 compared to April 2019). Environmental, economic and political factors, along with tight credit lending restrictions, have all contributed to this
According to Weber, the automotive industry in Australia has focused on keeping dealerships open to ensure customers can access sales and important maintenance services for their vehicles, despite the current health and economic difficulties.
“Our member brands are working closely with their dealer networks to ensure dealerships are accessible and safe. Enhanced hygiene protocols and contact-less sales and social interactions have been initiated to ensure personal protection for both customers and dealer staff.
Many automotive brands are also providing financial and sales target relief to stressed retail outlets.
“We know that our member brands are doing everything they can to assist both their dealerships and their valued customers during this difficult time.
“But more needs to be done. We are calling on Federal and State Governments to consider the automotive industry, which employs over 65,000 people in Australia, when compiling their recovery plans,” Weber said.
“The JobKeeper and JobSeeker payment programs put in place by the Federal Government are a welcome initiative.
“However, we believe the scope needs to ensure high turnover and low margin businesses, such as new car dealerships, are covered.
“These businesses are often the backbone of local communities and in the current environment, many are facing overwhelming challenges.
“As well as continued business initiatives, support to bolster consumer confidence is imperative to the strength of our economy.
“We have begun to see a slight lift in consumer confidence as the COVID-19 restrictions start to ease. We really need further measures to support this confidence and continue the positive trend.
“Initially, we would ask that the instant asset write off package is extended to further stimulate business purchasing,” Weber said.