Car sales by state (Australian figures)

Australians have a lot in common. A love of lamingtons, immense pride over the success of Bluey and a shared interest in the same cars.

Stats from around the country show that we’re more-or-less buying cars at the same rate and, especially on the second hand market, we’re all buying the same vehicles.

All new car sales (2026)

It may come as no real surprise, but car sales are very closely aligned by state population figures. NSW, for example, has 31% of the country’s population and that’s where 30.5% of new cars have been bought this year.

These figures (all sales up to the end of August 2026) add up to 848,920, which is almost 17,000 higher than at this time in 2025.

Used car sales

The user car market is much bigger in Australia than the one for new cars. In August alone, there were 243,514 registered second-hand sales, a slight growth on July’s numbers.

Here’s a snapshot of the sales, looking at just the 1-5 year-old market:

Most popular used car model by state

Looking deeper into the numbers in that table, we can see which cars sell the most often across the country. If you’re interested in second hand utes, there’s a very clear winner.

Ford Rangers all round.

Quickest-selling used cars in Australia

If you’re looking to sell your car – or buy one that you can sell later on – there are a few important metrics to look at. The most popular brands, the cars that hold their value best and the models that sell quickest.

Financing a second-hand car

Car loans and financing isn’t just for brand new cars. If you want to buy a used car from a dealership or a Marketplace ad, we can get you the finance you need. Read up on the safest used cars in Australia and then give us a call.

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