Challenges continued for the agricultural machinery market in February, the Tractor and Machinery Association says, however there were also signs of improvement
Tractor sales for February enjoyed a solid rise from the previous month, with just over 800 units sold, however this figure is around 6 per cent below the same month last year.
On a year-to-date basis, the industry is 10 per cent below the first two months of 2024 in terms of units sold.
In retail turnover terms the figure is around 29 per cent down, which is a reflection on the slow start to the year for larger and more expensive tractors.
Looking at the state-by-state picture, some states have shown improvement.
Victoria was up by 6 per cent for the month but still trails 2024 by 15 per cent.
South Australia recorded a rise of 8 per cent compared to February 2024 and is now only 4 per cent behind for the year to date.
Queensland sales were 6 per cent behind the same month last year and are now 2 per cent behind for the year to date.
New South Wales was 14 per cent behind for the month and is now 13 per cent down year to date.
Dry conditions across that state appear to be having an impact on demand at present, the TMA says.
Sales in Western Australia were off 10 per cent against the same month last year to now be 16 per cent behind for the year to date.
Tasmania remains 5 per cent up while Northern Territory sales are down on last year by 16 per cent.
Signs of positivity for the industry comes via the small, under 40 hp (under 30kw) category.
This was up 31 per cent during the month and overall sits 21 per cent ahead compared to last year.
The 40hp to 100hp (30-75kw) range was down by 12 per cent during February to now sit 7 per cent behind for the year to date, while the 100hp to 200hp (75-150 kw) category reported a rise of 7 per cent on February but is still down on last year by 12 per cent.
Finally, the 200hp plus (150kw plus) range was 42 per cent down for the second month in succession, meaning the overall figures are therefore 42 per cent behind for the year to date.
Combine harvesters enjoyed a bounce in February as manufacturers and dealers seek to stimulate the market after a subdued 2024.
Baler sales were steady for the month but still sit 39 per cent behind last year.
Finally, sales of out-front mowers dropped again to be down 30 per cent compared to last year.
The TMA has launched an exciting new careers awareness campaign which is aimed at showcasing the diverse and dynamic career opportunities within the agricultural machinery industry.
The campaign features a series of 12 compelling video stories from professionals across Australia, highlighting their unique backgrounds and career journeys.
The campaign aims to attract young people by breaking down industry stereotypes and demonstrating that careers in agricultural machinery can be technology-driven, creative, and highly innovative.
The featured individuals come from varied backgrounds, including some with no prior connection to agriculture, proving that this is an industry for everyone.
Planning is under way for the 2025 TMA Conference, which will be held on Thursday July 24 at the Hyatt Essendon Fields in Melbourne.
The TMA is currently putting the finishing touches to the program and will announce its speaker lineup soon.
Tickets will likely go on sale in April and further details will be available on the association’s website at www.tma.asn.au
You can also follow the TMA on Facebook and LinkedIn.