New home sales slump
New home sales dropped 17.5 per cent in the September quarter 2026, according to the Housing Industry Association. The fall reverses the recovery that began in 2025.
New home sales fell 17.5 per cent in the September quarter 2026
"New home sales fell by 17.5 per cent in the September quarter 2026, reversing the recovery that commenced in 2025" - Tim Reardon, HIA Chief Economist
Why did new home sales fall in 2026 and what does it mean for my work?
Builders, carpenters and the trades that follow them on new homes (plumbers, electricians, roofers, painters) may see fewer new job starts and a thinner work pipeline in coming months.
Key takeaways
- New home sales fell 17.5 per cent in the September quarter 2026.
- The drop reverses the sales recovery that began in 2025.
- HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon reported the figures.
- Weaker sales usually mean fewer new build starts for trades later on.
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