Australia Forklift Market Overview, 2030

Forklifts first made their mark in Australia as the manufacturing and logistics sectors expanded, with early adoption driven by the need to move heavy goods across vast distances and through diverse environments, from coastal cities to remote mining operations. Before forklifts became a fixture, Australian businesses relied on manual labor and basic carts, which limited productivity and often led to workplace injuries. The introduction of internal combustion engine forklifts transformed material handling, allowing companies to boost efficiency, reduce downtime, and keep up with the pace of industrial growth. As environmental awareness and government regulations around emissions intensified, electric forklifts began to gain traction, especially in urban centers and industries where sustainability is a priority. Today, forklifts are essential in Australia’s supply chain, supporting everything from agriculture and mining to e-commerce and retail. Technically, a forklift in Australia is more than just a lifting machine it’s a vital tool equipped with features like telematics, IoT integration, and advanced safety systems, designed to operate efficiently in both indoor and outdoor settings. Forklifts address real-world challenges by reducing reliance on manual labor, improving workplace safety, and enabling just-in-time logistics, which is crucial for businesses competing in the global market. The market has seen a surge in technological advancements, with companies investing in lithium-ion batteries, smart fleet management, and automation to enhance productivity and sustainability. However, challenges remain, including the high upfront costs of advanced models, a shortage of skilled operators, the need for robust infrastructure in remote regions, and the pressure to comply with evolving safety and environmental standards.

According to the research report ""Australia Forklift Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Australia Forklift market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 2 Billion by 2030. Australia’s forklift market is energized by a unique blend of economic drivers, including the country’s booming e-commerce sector, a strong focus on warehouse automation, and sustained growth in construction and manufacturing. The rapid rise of online shopping has led to the creation of massive distribution centers, especially in states like New South Wales and Victoria, where efficient material handling is essential to meet consumer expectations for fast delivery. Recent developments include a pronounced shift toward electric forklifts, driven by government incentives for low-emission vehicles, import duty concessions on battery-powered models, and growing corporate commitments to sustainability. Major market players such as Toyota Material Handling Australia, Komatsu Forklift Australia, Linde Material Handling, and Crown Equipment are not only supplying a wide range of models but also investing in R&D for smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient machines. These companies offer everything from rugged diesel forklifts for outdoor use to compact electric models for high-density warehouses, often equipped with telematics, cameras, and AI-driven safety features. Opportunities abound in the adoption of automation, IoT-enabled fleet management, and digital transformation, as businesses seek to optimize operations, reduce costs, and comply with stringent environmental standards. Compliance with Australian safety and environmental regulations is mandatory, helping companies avoid penalties and build trust with partners and customers. The latest trends include the rise of lithium-ion battery forklifts, the integration of smart technologies for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, and the growing popularity of rental and leasing models, which provide flexibility in a market where demand can fluctuate with seasonal peaks and economic cycles. These shifts are not only responses to regulatory and markets pressures but are also shaping a more efficient, sustainable, and competitive forklift industry in Australia.

Electric forklifts are rapidly becoming the backbone of Australia’s material handling operations, especially in sectors that prioritize sustainability, operational efficiency, and compliance with environmental standards. Their popularity is driven by several factors: zero tailpipe emissions, lower operating costs, and the ability to operate quietly in indoor and urban environments. The adoption of lithium-ion battery technology has further accelerated this trend, offering longer run times, faster charging, and improved performance in multi-shift operations, all of which are critical for large-scale warehouses and distribution centers. In regions like New South Wales and Victoria, where industrial activity is high and government policies favor green technology, electric forklifts are increasingly seen as a strategic investment. The integration of telematics and IoT allows fleet managers to monitor battery health, track usage, and schedule maintenance more efficiently, maximizing uptime and productivity. Manufacturers are responding to demand by expanding their electric forklift offerings, providing training for operators, and developing financing solutions to make advanced models more accessible to businesses of all sizes. As Australia continues to invest in renewable energy and green infrastructure, the electric forklift segment is poised for sustained growth, with ongoing innovation in automation and digital connectivity ensuring these machines remain at the forefront of the country’s logistics and industrial transformation.

Internal combustion engine forklifts still play a critical role in Australia, particularly in industries that demand high lifting capacity, durability, and the ability to operate in challenging outdoor conditions. These forklifts are essential for mining, construction, agriculture, and large-scale logistics operations, where infrastructure may be limited and loads are heavy. Diesel and LPG models are favored for their robustness and ability to work long hours in remote or rugged environments, such as mining sites in Western Australia or agricultural operations in Queensland. Despite their continued relevance, internal combustion forklifts face increasing scrutiny due to rising fuel costs, tightening emissions regulations, and the growing appeal of electric alternatives. Manufacturers are responding by introducing cleaner, more fuel-efficient engines and hybrid models that blend the benefits of traditional and electric power. The market share of internal combustion forklifts is gradually declining as electric models gain traction, particularly in urban and indoor applications. However, for many Australian businesses, especially those operating in sectors where electric charging infrastructure is not yet widespread, internal combustion forklifts remain indispensable. The challenge for the industry is to innovate while maintaining the ruggedness and reliability that these applications demand, ensuring that internal combustion forklifts continue to play a vital role in Australia’s industrial and resource sectors.

Warehousing and logistics have emerged as the most dynamic segments for forklift use in Australia, reflecting the country’s integration into global supply chains and the modernization of its domestic distribution networks. Forklifts are essential for a wide range of tasks, from palletizing and inventory management to loading and unloading trucks and containers. The expansion of e-commerce and the rise of third-party logistics providers have driven investment in new warehouses, distribution centers, and cold storage facilities, especially in major metropolitan areas and export corridors. Automation, robotics, and smart fleet management systems are becoming increasingly common, allowing for higher throughput, greater accuracy, and improved safety in busy facilities. In addition to warehousing, the manufacturing, agriculture, and mining sectors all rely heavily on forklifts to move raw materials, support export activities, and maintain efficient production workflows. Construction sites also depend on forklifts for handling heavy materials and supporting large infrastructure projects, particularly in regions where government investment in roads, ports, and energy is a priority. As Australia continues to invest in logistics infrastructure and digital transformation, the demand for advanced forklift solutions tailored to local needs is set to rise, cementing the forklift’s role as a critical enabler of the country’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Salt Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Electric Forklifts
• Internal Combustion Engine
• Other

By Class
• Class I
• Class II
• Class III
• Class IV/V

By Application
• Warehousing & Logistics
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Others Show more