Tractor and Machinery Association (TMA), executive director, Gary Northover said last months results showed another drop in the sales of agricultural machinery, which he believed was the result of the lack of confidence linked to drought conditions in eastern states.
"Reported sales were 14 per cent lower than the same month last year and now sit around 6pc below on a rolling twelve months basis," he said.
"New South Wales and Victorian sales in particular have been hardest hit down 22pc and 8pc respectively.
"The news is not much better in the other states, Western Australia now down 6pc on what was a great year last year, South Australia down a whopping 30pc.
Mr Northover said Queensland sales were bucking the trend, up 4pc for the month and only don 3pc on last year.
"Tasmania was down around 12pc although a bright February was had there," he said.
"We’ve all been praying for rain and the heavens delivered in Queensland, the effects of which will be seen in the months ahead."
Mr Northover said the sales drop occurred across all four reported size categories.
"The under 40 hp range down 8pc as the level of discretionary spending in the leisure market dries up," he said.
"The 40 hp to 100hp segment is now down 12pc on last year and both larger ranges 100hp to 20hp and 200hp and over off a further 15 and 17pc."
Mr Northover said sales of new headers remained sluggish.
"Combine harvester sales continue to struggle with advice from many dealers that the forward ordering of new machines has been less than promising," he said.
"Good stock levels remain available around the country so if demand improves, dealers will be ready to deal."
Mr Northover said contrary to other machinery classes, baler sales continued to remain strong.
"Baler sales are flying out the door, after a great start in January another great February sees balers around 25pc up on last year," he said.
Dealer conference
Mr Northover said planning is underway for the annual TMA conference to be held on Tuesday the 16th of July at the Hyatt Place Melbourne,in Essendon Fields.
"It will present a focus on better understanding the customer of tomorrow," he said.
"This event is a must for all manufacturers, dealers and suppliers to industry and promises to be a highlight of the year.
"Ticketing and sponsorship details will be released soon and can be found on the TMA website www.tma.asn.au ."