What this class covers
ANZSIC class 0159 classifies Australian agricultural businesses growing specialised crops that don't fit into other mainstream classifications. This category primarily encompasses operations producing animal fodder crops and various industrial or specialty plants rather than food crops for direct human consumption.
Typical businesses in this class include hay and silage producers supplying the livestock industry, hop growers serving the brewing sector, peanut farms, tobacco growers, and operations cultivating plants for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or industrial purposes. The classification captures agricultural activities that are often niche but commercially significant in specific regional economies.
For Australian business registration and reporting purposes, this classification helps government agencies and industry bodies track production of these specialised crops separately from mainstream agriculture. The Australian Bureau of Statistics uses this data to monitor agricultural diversity and economic contributions beyond major food crops.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class typically engage in:
- Growing animal fodder crops including hay, lucerne, sudan grass, and silage
- Cultivating hops for the brewing industry
- Growing peanuts (as distinct from other nuts classified elsewhere)
- Producing tobacco leaves
- Cultivating plants for pharmaceutical or cosmetic ingredients
- Growing fibre crops such as flax, jute, and bamboo
- Producing spice crops like ginger and mustard
- Growing specialised seeds not covered by other classifications
- Cultivating lavender and other aromatic plants
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes growing edible herbs and common vegetables, which are classified under ANZSIC 0122 (Vegetable Growing Under Cover) and 0123 (Vegetable Growing Outdoors). Mainstream grain growing operations fall under classes 0111-0114, while nut growing (except peanuts) is classified elsewhere.
Nearby classifications include ANZSIC 0129 (Other Fruit and Tree Nut Growing) for perennial crops and various horticultural classifications for nursery production and floriculture. Businesses should carefully distinguish between growing crops for fodder versus growing the same crops for human consumption, as this often determines the correct classification.
Practical guidance
When registering your ABN, select the most specific ANZSIC code that matches your primary activity. For mixed operations, use the code that represents your main income source. Your ANZSIC classification determines your Business Industry Code (BIC) for tax purposes and affects your workers' compensation insurance premiums.
Agricultural businesses in this classification should maintain clear records distinguishing between different crop types, as eligibility for certain grants and drought assistance programs may depend on specific crop classifications. The National Drought Agreement and various state-based programs often have different criteria for fodder producers versus food crop growers.
When completing Business Activity Statements and tax returns, ensure your reported activities align with your ANZSIC classification. The ATO and ABS use this data for industry statistics, and discrepancies may trigger reviews. Specialised growers should also check eligibility for research and development tax incentives for innovative agricultural practices.