Australian home prices fell 1.1% in September, extending the national decline to six consecutive months, while the S&P/ASX 200 dropped 119 points, or 1.4%, to 8,669 in early October trading. Housing values were 5.2% below their peak and unchanged from a year earlier, with Sydney down 1.4% in September and nearly 9% below its February peak. Sales over the latest three months were 19% below a year earlier as inventories rose and investor demand weakened. Factory activity contracted at its fastest pace in 21 months, while energy minerals, financials, healthcare and logistics shares led the market decline. The Reserve Bank of Australia raised rates four times this year to 4.6%, although Governor Michele Bullock indicated the September increase could be the final hike; reports also said the central bank remained prepared to tighten further if necessary. Economists expect a 10% peak-to-trough housing decline, with AMP forecasting a 10% to 15% fall before a modest recovery in 2027-28.