What this class covers
ANZSIC class 1523 classifies Australian businesses primarily engaged in the manufacturing of paper stationery and related converted paper products. This involves transforming paper or paperboard into finished goods designed for writing, filing, games, and other applications. The core activity is the conversion process, which can include cutting, folding, binding, and other finishing work, but notably excludes printing as the primary activity.
Typical operations in this class include a small business producing bespoke notebooks and writing pads from bulk paper stock, a factory manufacturing filing supplies like manila folders and index cards, or a specialised manufacturer creating paper-based toys and games, such as board games or playing cards. This classification is used by government agencies like the Australian Bureau of Statistics for data collection and by businesses themselves for accurate reporting on activity statements, grant applications, and industry analysis.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class are mainly involved in:
- Manufacturing paper stationery, such as notebooks, writing pads, diaries, and filing products.
- Manufacturing paper labels, but specifically those that are not adhesive (e.g., tags, tie-on labels).
- Manufacturing games and toys made primarily from paperboard, like certain board games or construction sets.
- Manufacturing playing cards and other similar game pieces from paper or card stock.
Exclusions and nearby codes
It is important to note which activities are excluded from this class and where they are classified instead.
Manufacturing non-paper stationery items, such as pens, pencils, or markers, is not included here. This activity falls under ANZSIC class 2599 (Other Manufacturing n.e.c.). Similarly, the manufacturing of adhesive paper labels (e.g., stickers) is classified under ANZSIC class 1529 (Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing).
If a business's primary service is printing designs or text onto pre-manufactured paper stationery, it belongs in ANZSIC class 1611 (Printing). Furthermore, businesses that primarily publish or design greeting cards or calendars are classified under ANZSIC class 5419 (Other Publishing).
Practical guidance
When registering your business or applying for an ABN, selecting the correct ANZSIC classification helps government agencies understand your primary activity. For this class, the relevant Business Industry Code (BIC) is 15230, which may be requested on certain government forms.
Your workers' compensation insurance premiums may be influenced by your industry classification, as rates can vary between different manufacturing sectors. When completing your business tax return, accurately stating your main activity code ensures your business is represented correctly in national economic data. While this classification itself does not directly determine tax obligations, it is a key identifier used in the administration of potential industry-specific grants or reporting requirements.