Auction Results & Clearance Rates
What Australian auction clearance rates tell us about the property market — and how to use them when buying or selling.
Understanding Auction Clearance Rates
The auction clearance rate measures the percentage of properties sold at auction out of those scheduled. It is one of the most closely watched indicators of property market sentiment in Australia.
- Above 75% — A strong seller's market. Demand significantly outstrips supply, and prices are likely rising. Buyers face stiff competition.
- 65–75% — A balanced market. Neither buyers nor sellers have a clear advantage. Prices tend to grow at moderate rates.
- Below 60% — A buyer's market. Supply exceeds demand, giving purchasers more negotiating power and time to make decisions.
Keep in mind that clearance rates are reported as preliminary figures on auction day and then revised in subsequent days as more results are collected. Final rates are typically a few percentage points lower than preliminary numbers.
Current Market Conditions
In 2026, the national auction clearance rate has generally been sitting in the mid-60s to low-70s range, indicating a broadly balanced market across Australia.
Sydney
Clearance rates have been in the mid-to-high 50s range, reflecting a market that favours buyers. High listing volumes and affordability constraints continue to moderate competition.
Melbourne
Melbourne clearance rates have been hovering in the mid-50s to low-60s range. Elevated stock levels and cautious buyer sentiment are keeping rates below the long-term average.
For a detailed analysis with week-by-week data, read our comprehensive auction clearance rates article.
How to Track Auction Results
Several organisations publish auction result data each week. The most reliable sources are:
- CoreLogic — Provides national and city-level clearance rates every Saturday and publishes revised final figures mid-week. Widely cited by economists and media.
- REIV (Real Estate Institute of Victoria) — Publishes detailed Melbourne auction results, including individual property outcomes with sale prices.
- Domain — Reports auction results across major capitals with interactive maps and searchable suburb-level data.
For the most accurate picture, rely on final revised figures rather than preliminary results, and compare rates over several consecutive weeks rather than focusing on any single weekend.
What Auction Results Mean for Buyers and Sellers
For Buyers
- Low clearance rates (<60%) mean less competition — you may be able to negotiate below the reserve.
- Track suburb-level data, not just city-wide averages, to understand your local market.
- Always know your borrowing power before attending an auction — there is no cooling-off period on auction purchases.
For Sellers
- High clearance rates (>75%) suggest strong demand — auction is likely to deliver a competitive result.
- In weaker markets, consider setting a realistic reserve or exploring private treaty sales.
- Timing matters: spring and autumn typically see the highest auction volumes and engagement.