The Australian Automotive Dealer Association’s (AADA) survey results highlight ongoing delays in removing security interests from the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR).
In late 2025, the AADA conducted a survey of members to understand their experiences with the PPSR. 85 responses from senior dealership representatives across nearly 600 franchised sites nationwide were received.
Dealers confirmed the PPSR is a critical and effective tool for identifying encumbrances and protecting transactions. However, concerns are not with the register itself, but with delays by finance companies in removing listings once loans are paid out.
Key Findings
- The PPSR is used heavily and frequently by dealers:
- 62% of dealers conduct more than 50 searches per month
- 27% conduct over 200 searches
- 71% of dealers experience delays in removal of encumbrances beyond the required 5 business days.
- Delays are widespread across multiple finance providers, indicating a systemic issue.
- 35% of dealers report real financial impacts as a result of these delays, including:
- Lost or cancelled sales
- Delayed vehicle deliveries
- Increased holding and floorplan costs
- Cashflow disruption
- Dealers report no clear escalation pathway, often unable to resolve issues due to privacy barriers, even after taking ownership of the vehicle.
The survey demonstrated that these delays are not isolated and appear to be a recurring operational issue affecting dealerships across the country. When encumbrances are not removed on time, dealers are unable to provide a clear title, putting sales at risk and adding unnecessary cost.
The AADA has shared these findings with the Australian Financial Security Authority to highlight the scale of the issue and the need for stronger compliance with statutory timeframes. This follows comments from AFSA Chief Executive Tim Beresford, who wrote to the Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, in August 2025, outlining concerns with the PPSR, including delays by finance companies in updating and removing registrations.
The AADA will continue to advocate for practical solutions to ensure the PPSR operates as intended, supporting efficient transactions and protecting both dealers and consumers.
Thank you to all members who contributed to this survey. This input is critical, and we will keep members updated as we continue to progress this issue.