Australia Forklift Market Size, Share and Forecast Trends - Growth Analysis and Outlook Report (2026-2035)

Key Market Trends and Insights

• The forklift market in Victoria is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.4% over the forecast period.
• By tonnage capacity, the below 5-ton category is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.6% during the forecast period.
• By power source, the electric category is projected to record at a CAGR of 16.3% during the forecast period.

Market Size and Forecast

• Market Size in 2025: AUD 3.63 billion
• Projected Market Size in 2035: AUD 14.56 billion
• CAGR from 2026 to 2035: 14.90%
• Dominant Regional Market: Western Australia

There are two different driving factors driving the Australia forklift market growth. First, the development of refrigerated facilities and cold chain logistics networks is increasing the demand for electric forklifts, which can function effectively under such conditions. Secondly, increasing labor costs are prompting organizations to utilize semi-automated forklifts, making the process more efficient and less dependent on labor. 

Moreover, there have been observable changes in the Australia forklift market due to trends in electrification and the implementation of automated warehousing. For example, in April 2025, CLARK launched L25XE electric forklift, combining diesel-level power, lithium-ion efficiency, and versatile indoor-outdoor performance with eco-friendly operation.

As energy efficiency and emissions standards are tightening, the trend in the Australia forklift market towards energy-efficient forklifts is expected to continue, as fleet operators seek solutions that enable them to minimize carbon emissions without decreasing productivity. Telematics technology and predictive maintenance solutions are being incorporated into manufacturing processes in the form of fleet management software. For example, in April 2026, Linde debuted myLinde fleet platform and E18-E20 electric forklift, enhancing visibility, performance, connectivity, and data-driven warehouse operations efficiency. Such solutions are increasingly becoming an important purchasing criterion for logistics firms.

Recent Developments

April 2026 - Combilift Advanced Electric Multidirectional Forklifts for Sustainable Operations

Combilift invented the electric multidirectional forklift, which improved manoeuvrability, lowered pollution levels, and contributed to greener and more efficient space use. Therefore, competing businesses can also produce electric and compact forklifts to address warehouse renovation requirements driven by the need for sustainability, leveraging such developments in the Australia forklift market.

April 2026 - Viscount Introduced Reusable Pooling Solutions for Efficient Supply Chains

Viscount released their pooling solutions, promoting efficiencies in pallets and crates use, decreasing wastage, and facilitating efficient circular logistics systems. Forklift businesses might ensure their products comply with the reusable logistics systems for efficient material handling systems, following such market trends.

January 2026 - Jungheinrich Introduced ‘Anton’ Value Brand in Asia-Pacific Markets

Anton brand from Jungheinrich was launched, providing affordable and effective forklifts, meeting the demands of cost-sensitive buyers. Companies can therefore develop cost-efficient forklift ranges to address growing demand from price-sensitive SMEs across Australia.

November 2025 - Kalmar Ensures Forklift Supply Agreement for Heavy Industries

Kalmar forged an agreement to provide forklift supply services by producing durable, efficient, and optimally performing forklifts. Organizations in the Australia forklift market can also concentrate on producing high capacity and specific forklifts to cater to heavy industries.

Key Drivers and Trends

Electrification of Forklift Fleets Across Industrial Operations

The preference for the use of electric forklifts is increasing throughout Australia, especially after firms set out to achieve their emissions reduction goals within the framework of national climate policies. The use of lithium-ion batteries is on the rise due to shorter charging times and increased longevity when compared to the lead-acid counterparts, accelerating the Australia forklift market value. Sustainable development initiatives supported by the government encourage firms to invest in low-emissions equipment, including electric forklifts, in urban logistics centers. Transitioning towards using electric forklifts has both economic and environmental benefits as such machinery does not require high maintenance costs. In April 2026, Big Joe launched Pulse telemetry system, enabling real-time diagnostics, energy tracking, and remote fleet optimization to support lithium-ion forklift adoption.

Telematics and Fleet Management Systems

Providers in the Australia forklift market equip their products with advanced telematics technologies to collect relevant data about the operation of the fleet. Warehouse managers can access information regarding vehicle utilization and monitor their performance. For instance, in April 2026, LogiMAT 2026 showcased accelerating automation adoption, with AGVs, AI-driven systems, and digital solutions transforming material handling efficiency and workforce dynamics. Data analysis also plays a crucial role in making informed decisions in logistics operations.

Growth of E-commerce and High-Density Warehousing

The fast development of electronic commerce in Australia is continuously driving the demand in the Australia forklift market, with emphasis being placed on small-size and highly manoeuvrable units. Compact and space-efficient forklifts are becoming more common in facilities aiming to maximize output within limited kitchen or storage space. Consequently, the need emerged for forklifts that could work with densely packed cargo. Thus, manufacturers have started designing such machines with an emphasis on precision handling, greater visibility, and easier integration with automation processes. In June 2025, Dylan O’Keeffe joined 2025 Australian Forklift Championship, highlighting precision, safety, and skill parallels between motorsport and warehouse operations.

Emergence of Autonomously Controlled Forklifts

Autonomous and semi-autonomous devices are drawing attention from large-scale companies, boosting the demand in the Australia forklift market. With the rising need to cut costs and increase efficiency, enterprises are implementing guided vehicles and mobile robots that can perform monotonous operations. In Australia, mining and manufacturing businesses are implementing autonomous forklifts in their operations in order to ensure greater safety and optimize expenses. Autonomous forklifts are controlled by computers that employ various cameras, sensors, and navigation algorithms. For example, in March 2026, Shippit introduced Velocity platform, integrating AI analytics, automation, and B2B workflows to accelerate delivery speeds while maintaining cost efficiency.

Expansion of Rental and Leasing Business Models

The forklift rental and leasing industry is experiencing consistent growth due to the advantages over ownership. There is a rising trend of businesses seeking flexibility instead of owning the assets. It applies especially to smaller and medium-sized firms, which need scalability at the same time not spending heavy capital investments. Additional services provided by forklift rentals include maintenance, fleet upgrading, and even implementation of telematics. Prominent players in the global market are increasing their rental fleet, incorporating electric and autonomous forklifts. For example, in January 2026, Japanese rental company acquired forklift and telehandler wholesale rental specialist based in Melbourne, widening the scope for Australia forklift market expansion.

Australia Forklift Industry Segmentation

The EMR’s report titled “Australia Forklift Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Tonnage Capacity

• Below 5 Ton
• 6-30 Ton
• Above 30 Ton

Key Insight: The tonnage capacity segment differentiation shows a definite distinction between city logistics and heavy industrial requirements. The use of less than 5 tons forklift trucks relies on factors such as warehouse density and fast order processing, whereas trucks between 6 and 30 tons witness infrastructural development and improvement of cargo handling systems. However, trucks with more than 30-ton capacity depend on the need for load handling in industrial mining, boosting growth in the Australia forklift market. For example, in April 2026, Isuzu and Toyota partnered to develop hydrogen fuel cell trucks, targeting mass production, enhanced durability, long-range efficiency, and faster refueling.

Market Breakup by Class

• Class 1
• Class 2
• Class 3
• Class 4/5

Key Insight: The Australia forklift market report exhibits an even balance between strength and efficiency in all categories. The category of class 4/5 is dominant because of its durability and applicability in outdoor operations. The category of class 1 is developing rapidly as the world adopts electric forklifts and warehouses. The category of class 2 forklifts is becoming important in high-density storage applications because of the increasing need for efficient use of space.

Market Breakup by Power Source

• ICE
• Electric

Key Insight: Power source classification points towards an evolving trend towards sustainability while maintaining flexibility. Electric forklifts stand out within the Australia forklift market scope because of their efficiency and adherence to emission regulations, while internal combustion engines forklifts become crucial in heavy duty and outdoor operations. The division of the two demonstrates that Australian industries are heterogeneous, thus requiring different forklift types according to specific needs.

Market Breakup by Product Type

• Counterbalance
• Warehouse

Key Insight: The product type segmentation reflects a balance between broad functionality and specialized application needs. The counterbalance forklifts experience a strong presence in the Australia forklift market owing to their wide-ranging applications, whereas the demand for warehouse forklifts is growing at a fast pace because of the rise of e-commerce and warehousing demands.

Market Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverage
• Third Part Logistics
• Automotive
• Healthcare
• Others

Key Insight: Segmentation based on applications emphasizes the different industrial end users boosting the demand growth in the Australia forklift market. Third-party logistics takes the lead owing to its importance in supply chain activities, followed by food and beverages as it develops the need for refrigerated storage. Other industries such as automotive and healthcare play important roles through special handling demands.

Market Breakup by Region

• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Queensland
• Australian Capital Territory
• Western Australia 
• Others

Key Insight: Regional segmentation varies depending on the dynamics of the industry in different parts of Australia. The Western Australia forklift market is positioned at the forefront owing to mining and the demands for heavy industries, while Victoria is expanding its shares owing to logistics and manufacturing industries. Other regions such as the Australian Capital Territory, on the other hand, exhibit consistent demands due to local industry and commerce.

Australia Forklift Market Share

By tonnage capacity, below the 5-ton category registers the largest share of the market due to warehouse agility demand

Below 5-ton capacity class accounts for the majority of the Australia forklift market revenue, attributed to their alignment with warehouse, retailing, and last mile logistics operations. The forklifts favored in such operations are compact in design, maneuverable, and ideal for use within indoor environments, particularly those featuring high-density storage operations. Demand for such forklift trucks is growing owing to expansion in e-commerce organizations, which are establishing larger distribution centers, requiring more compact forklifts for the movement of light to medium loads. In November 2025, LGMG expanded forklift portfolio with electric, dual-fuel, and intelligent systems, enhancing flexibility, efficiency, safety, and sustainable material handling solutions.

The fast-growing category in the Australia forklift market is represented by the 6-30 ton class, which is benefiting from growth in infrastructure development projects and port operations across the country. Such forklifts are mainly used in outdoor environments where there are requirements for lifting operations involving medium to heavier payloads. There are increasing efforts to enhance efficiency while promoting green initiatives through hybrid and fuel-efficient forklift trucks.

Class 4/5 forklifts dominate the Australian market due to strength in heavy-duty outdoor operations across construction, mining, ports, and manufacturing

The Class 4/5 internal combustion forklift continues to lead growth in the Australia forklift market due to its unrivalled strength in dealing with heavy-duty outdoor operations. Class 4 forklifts are typically diesel-powered, while Class 5 forklifts operate using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The reason why there is a great preference for this category of forklifts is because of its high load-bearing capability and robustness in handling operations in rugged conditions. Industries handling bulky loads, large items, and rough terrain typically find Class 4 and Class 5 forklifts ideal for such operations.

Class 1 forklifts represent one of the fastest growing segments in the Australia forklift market because of the electrification trends currently taking place. These types of forklifts are mostly operated by electric motors. They are mostly used in areas where air quality and indoor performance are important criteria for the success of any operation. Lithium batteries have advanced rapidly thus resulting in high efficiency in the charging process and longer service life of these batteries. This advancement makes the Class 1 forklift suitable for indoor applications. For example, in April 2026, Linde launched Ei electric forklifts featuring lithium-ion batteries, improving ergonomics, safety, flexibility, and efficient light-to-medium-duty warehouse operations.

By power source, electric forklifts witness notable demand in the market driven by emission compliance and automation needs

Electric-powered forklifts are largely contributing to the Australia forklift market value owing to rising environmental regulations and corporate sustainability commitments. Many organizations are moving towards electric fleets as part of their efforts to decrease carbon emissions and comply with workplace safety requirements. The usage of lithium-ion batteries in forklifts is an important trend that ensures quick charging, increased life expectancy, and low maintenance. Additionally, electric forklifts emit less noise pollution and work well indoors, which makes them ideal for warehouses and food logistics businesses. In March 2026, Jungheinrich launched five products including electric forklifts, reach trucks, and mobile robots, advancing electrification, automation, and high-performance material handling solutions.

There is a consistent increase in sales of internal combustion engines' forklifts due to their high demand in particular settings. The use of such forklifts can be observed in industries including construction, mining, and heavy manufacturing due to their need to lift heavy loads during long working hours. Organizations are developing more efficient and eco-friendly solutions for this type of equipment in response to growing concerns about their harmful impact on the environment. Internal combustion engine forklifts prove their competitiveness and popularity in harsh operating conditions and distant places.

By product type, counterbalance forklifts expand rapidly in the market due to high-density storage optimization requirements

Counterbalance forklifts are taking a leading position in the Australia forklift market owing to their versatile usage and applications across different industries. Such forklifts are used in warehouses, manufacturing plants, and construction sites for loading and unloading purposes. Moreover, the lack of need for any external equipment when operating such forklifts allows businesses to use them without any complications. Modern manufacturers strive to make counterbalance forklifts safer, more comfortable for operators, and highly visible to operate. At the same time, the adoption of electric counterbalance forklifts is rising as industries seek to balance operational reliability with sustainability goals. Thus, counterbalance forklifts become an essential part of material handling operations. For instance, in April 2026, Viscount launched reusable pooling packaging, enhancing supply chain efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting circular logistics operations across fresh produce industries.

Warehouse forklifts are among the fastest-developing segments in the Australia forklift market owing to the growth rate of e-commerce and high-density storage operations. Warehouse forklifts are designed specifically for indoor usage, allowing businesses to handle the goods in a more precise manner. Businesses purchase reach trucks, pallet jacks, and order pickers, which allow using the available space more efficiently.

Third-party logistics leads the application segment in the market due to surge in e-commerce fulfillment demand

Third party logistics (3PL) emerges as the largest application category owing to the fast pace at which the e-commerce sector is growing. Besides, many companies are outsourcing their logistics services to third-party entities. There is an increased demand for warehouses and modern material handling machinery in the sector. Forklifts are important assets because they facilitate efficient inventory management, order picking, and loading. Smart forklifts, which incorporate automation and telematics technology, are being adopted widely for improving operational efficiency. Furthermore, there is a constant investment in forklift fleet because of the demand for better inventory management and fast turnaround times.

Food and beverages emerge as the fastest growing application owing to the rise in cold storages and logistics that are temperature controlled, boosting the overall Australia forklift market growth. The forklifts used in this industry must be able to function efficiently in cold storage conditions. Electric forklifts are popular since they do not emit any harmful emissions. The sector requires specialized forklifts that come with hygienic qualities. There is an increased investment in forklifts made of corrosion resistant materials. Processed and packaged foods are also adding more opportunities in the market. For example, Toyota offers Traigo80 electric forklifts, delivering heavy-duty performance, multiple energy options, enhanced safety, and efficient indoor-outdoor material handling operations.

Australia Forklift Market Regional Analysis

Western Australia dominates the market due to mining and heavy industrial handling needs

The dominance of the Western Australia forklift market can be attributed to its reliance on mining and resource-based industries that require forklifts to handle vast amounts of raw and processed products. Forklifts utilized in this region are generally built to withstand challenging environments while maintaining high efficiency when handling huge amounts of cargo. As companies invest in sturdy and efficient forklifts to facilitate mining operations and construction projects, Western Australia continues to be a major source of income for forklift manufacturers.

The fastest growing forklift regional market is Victoria. The market is powered by rapid advancements in its logistics and manufacturing industries. Increased investments in warehouse management systems by companies are leading to the growth in the use of sophisticated forklifts such as battery-powered and automated forklifts. This can be attributed to increased adoption of sustainable practices as well as innovations in technology. Other factors contributing to the fast-paced growth of the forklifts market include government efforts to promote the development of industries and supply chains.

Competitive Landscape

The forklift manufacturing industry in the country is becoming highly competitive, with a change in the direction of development from simple manufacturing towards electrification and automation. Australia forklift market players are directing their efforts on developing lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles, forklifts equipped with artificial intelligence fleet management software, as well as other innovations aimed at enhancing performance and maximizing customer value during the lifecycle of machines.

Integration is another aspect of differentiation, with many competitors integrating their forklifts with telematics solutions, maintenance systems, and leasing arrangements for better contract duration. This way, several leading OEMs provide logistics businesses with subscription services for entire fleets of forklifts without the need to purchase expensive machines. Moreover, partnerships with automated warehouse systems allow forklift companies to present themselves as full-stack material handling solutions providers. There are also opportunities within the cold chain and mining logistics sectors that require specialized forklift variants.

Key Players

CLARK

CLARK, founded in 1825 and having its headquarters in the United Kingdom, aims to make an entry into the Australian market by providing efficient and cost-effective forklifts. The firm is concentrating on providing hybrid power technology and improved safety features that are suitable for medium-sized industries looking for economically viable machines.

Crown Equipment Corporation

Founded in 1945 and located in Ohio, United States, Crown Equipment Corporation is one of the firms using vertical integration in their manufacturing process. Crown Equipment Corporation is focusing on connected forklifts with telematics and diagnostics facilities to maximize efficiency and reduce downtime in warehouses.

Komatsu Forklift Australia Pty Ltd

Komatsu Forklift Australia was established in 1998 in Tokyo, Japan, and it uses its engineering capabilities to design and manufacture forklifts that offer optimal performance in both industrial and mining contexts. Their focus is on developing fuel-efficient engines and sturdy machines that can operate in harsh Australian conditions.

Toyota Material Handling Australia

Toyota Material Handling Australia was founded in 1956 in Sydney, Australia, and has a reputation for innovations related to electric forklifts and lithium-ion technologies. It concentrates on implementing solutions that will help its clients, which are usually large-scale logistics companies, increase efficiency while decreasing their carbon footprint.

Other key players in the market include Hangcha Australia, among others.

Key Highlights of the Australia Forklift Market Report

• Insights into innovations like lithium-ion powered forklifts and AI-enabled fleet systems.
• Detailed competitive benchmarking of leading global and domestic forklift manufacturers.
• Regional analysis highlighting mining-driven and logistics-driven demand pockets.
• Strategic outlook focusing on automation, sustainability, and service-based business models.

Why Rely on Expert Market Research?

• Deep industry understanding supported by material handling and logistics domain experts.
• Tailored insights designed to support strategic expansion and investment decisions.
• Comprehensive research methodology combining primary interviews and verified data sources.
• Forward-looking analysis powered by advanced tools to identify emerging technology shifts.

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