For immediate use
January 6 2010
Australian Automotive Industry looks to a stable 2010
VACC, the peak Automotive Industry body in Victoria, has welcomed today’s
announcement that more than 930,000 new vehicles were in Australia in 2009.
Sales numbers were better than expected despite the Global Financial Crisis.
VFACTS figures, released by FCAI today in Canberra, show 937,328 passenger cars,
SUVs and commercial vehicles were sold nationally in 2009.
“To sell that number of new vehicles during a turbulent twelve months is a very good
achievement,” VACC Senior Manager, Government and Public Affairs, David Russell
said.
“880,000 new vehicle sales was the target figure for 2009 so to surpass this is a
tremendous effort by all concerned.
“Once again, the Australian Automotive Industry has proved to be resilient.
2009 saw low business and consumer confidence, a credit crunch and a severe
downturn in the global vehicle manufacturing sector.
“Today’s figures are a reflection of the determination and flexibility of the Australian
work ethic. They also serve as a reminder of the importance of the Automobile
Industry to the Australian economy.
“The vehicle manufacturing, retailing and repair industry employs over 250,000
Australians and is a substantial economic multiplier. A good year in new car sales
supports many Australians and contributes over $100 billion to the national economy.
“Manufacturers, unions, dealers and consumers should be congratulated on their
contribution to the 2009 new vehicle sales figures. And the Government too has
played its part well by providing business tax incentives, which stimulated the market.
“Looking ahead, the January 1st tariff reduction of 5 percent has made the new car
market even more competitive, making it a good time for prospective buyers to visit
their local dealer.
“Now the Automotive Industry is looking forward to continued improvement in 2010.
A period of consolidation and stability will create an environment in which the Industry
can confidently invest, employ and contribute to the economy,” Mr Russell said.
Ends.
NEWS 
