What this class covers
ANZSIC class 3020 covers businesses primarily engaged in constructing non-residential buildings across Australia. This includes new construction projects as well as alterations, additions, and renovations to existing non-residential structures. The classification applies to contractors who physically build these structures and those who organise or manage the construction process.
Typical businesses in this class include commercial construction firms building office towers, companies specialising in industrial facility construction, contractors erecting prefabricated temperature-controlled structures for cold storage, and firms undertaking major renovations of hospitals or educational facilities. The classification captures the complete construction process from foundation work through to structure completion, excluding specialized trade services that are classified separately.
This classification is used by Australian businesses when registering for an ABN, completing Business Activity Statements, and for statistical reporting to government agencies. It helps determine appropriate workers' compensation categories and may be referenced in tender documents or industry-specific regulations.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 3020 typically engage in:
- Constructing commercial buildings such as offices, retail stores, and shopping centres
- Building industrial facilities including factories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants
- Assembling and erecting prefabricated non-residential buildings on-site (excluding basic sheds and garages)
- Installing specialized prefabricated structures like cold storage units and temperature-controlled environments
- Renovating, altering, or adding to existing non-residential buildings including hotels, hospitals, and institutional facilities
Exclusions and nearby codes
Several related activities are specifically excluded from ANZSIC 3020 and classified elsewhere:
Off-site production of prefabricated metal buildings or components falls under Group 222: Structural Metal Product Manufacturing. This separation distinguishes manufacturing activities from on-site construction work.
Specialized trade services such as electrical, plumbing, or air conditioning installation are classified under Group 323: Building Installation Services, even when performed on non-residential construction projects.
Architectural design, engineering consultancy, and project management services (when not combined with physical construction) are included in Group 692: Architectural, Engineering and Technical Services.
Practical guidance
When registering your business or applying for an ABN, accurately selecting ANZSIC 3020 ensures proper classification for tax and statistical purposes. This classification determines your Business Industry Code (BIC) which affects how you complete Business Activity Statements and tax returns.
Workers' compensation premiums in Australia are calculated based on industry risk classifications, with construction categories generally carrying higher premium rates than less hazardous industries. Ensure you're classified correctly to avoid premium miscalculations.
Some government grants or industry assistance programs may reference ANZSIC codes for eligibility criteria. Maintaining accurate classification helps when applying for such programs or complying with industry-specific reporting requirements. Keep records that demonstrate your primary business activities align with this classification.