What this class covers
ANZSIC class 0413 covers commercial fishing operations in Australian waters that primarily use line-based methods rather than nets or trawls. This classification applies to businesses catching marine species using various hook-and-line techniques in inshore, mid-depth, or surface waters around Australia's extensive coastline. These operations typically target high-value species that are better suited to line capture methods, often resulting in premium product quality.
Typical businesses in this class include commercial fishing charters specialising in game fishing, independent operators targeting species like tuna or swordfish with longlines, squid jigging operations in southern waters, and smaller-scale fishers using handlines or powered reels for local markets. The classification is used by government agencies for statistical reporting, by insurers for calculating premiums, and by businesses themselves when applying for fishing licenses or industry-specific grants.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class primarily engage in:
- Bottom long line fishing - Setting anchored lines with multiple hooks on the sea floor to catch demersal species
- Surface long line fishing - Deploying floating lines with hooks to target pelagic fish species
- Ocean trolling - Towing hooked lines behind moving vessels to catch fast-swimming fish
- Squid jigging - Using specialised lured lines to catch squid in targeted operations
- Hand or powered-reel fishing - Traditional line fishing methods using manual or mechanical reeling systems
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes fishing methods that use nets or trawls. Operations involving trawling, seining, or netting fall under Class 0414: Fish Trawling, Seining and Netting. This distinction is important as different fishing methods often have separate licensing requirements, environmental impacts, and market characteristics.
Businesses engaged in aquaculture (fish farming) are classified separately under Division A, Subdivision 03. Similarly, fish processing operations that don't involve actual fishing belong in Division C (Manufacturing). The classification system ensures each distinct business activity is captured accurately for statistical and regulatory purposes.
Practical guidance
When registering a line fishing business in Australia, you must select ANZSIC 0413 as your primary classification for ABN registration and Business Activity Statements. This classification affects how your business is treated for statistical purposes by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and may influence your workers' compensation insurance premiums, which are often industry-based.
Line fishing operations typically require state-based commercial fishing licenses in addition to standard business registrations. You should also be aware that this classification maps to BIC code 4130 for international trade reporting purposes. When applying for industry grants or assistance programs, ensure you're using the correct ANZSIC code as eligibility often depends on accurate classification.