Tractor sales back into positive territory

For the first time in many months, sales of agricultural tractors have increased compared to the same month last year, with just over 800 tractors sold across Australia in September 2025.

This is a 0.8 per cent improvement on September 2024, although the year-to-date (YTD) figure still eight per cent down.

Meanwhile, retail turnover (ie income as opposed to unit numbers) for September was even more impressive, up by 2.7 per cent.

The 40-100hp and 200hp and above tractor categories both surged in September, up 19.9 and 11.2 per cent respectively, while under 40hp (down 14.5 per cent) and 100-200hp (down 9.9 per cent) both felt the squeeze.

All four categories remain down YTD, with 40-100hp now only 1.1 per cent in the red.

Related: Tractor sales dip in August amidst ‘lumpy demand’

The tractor industry is currently dealing with two very different scenarios. In the west and north, conditions are very strong aided by healthy rainfall throughout the year, while the southern and eastern states have been severely drought affected.

That said, South Australian enjoyed a strong rebound in September, up 37.8 per cent on the same period in 2024, while Queensland and the Northern Territory also surged with 21.4 and 12.5 per cent increases. With a strong harvest season about to commence, there’s scope for continued improvement.

Sales of combine harvesters continue to struggle, with the industry – well stocked as a result of the investment allowance years – currently nine per cent down on last year.

Sales of balers were again down for the month and remain 25 per cent in arrears YTD, while out-front mowers dropped again and remain 23 per cent behind YTD.

Finally, sales of self-propelled sprayers continue to lag, down 41 per cent compared to the same time last year.