The motor vehicle dealers industry in Australia experienced a steep decline in revenue and employment in the immediate aftermath of the global financial crisis. However, the industry bounced back well in 2009-10 with pent-up demand for new vehicles following a period of financial uncertainty and instability. It took a number of years for market to stabilise but now seems to be in a strong place with a gradual increase in establishments forecast in the future.
Despite a number of sectors in the automotive industry set to be hit hard by the impending closures of automotive manufacturers, it is predicted that motor vehicle dealers will continue to play a part in the market place as consumers will need an outlet to upgrade and replace vehicles. There is a shift in the types of vehicles being purchased with an emerging preference for new cars with updated technology, smaller, more fuel efficient cars, diesel cars, hybrid and electric cars.