What this class covers
ANZSIC class 3603 specifically covers businesses primarily engaged in the wholesale distribution of dairy products, ice cream, and frozen desserts in Australia. These operations typically source products from manufacturers and distribute them to retailers, food service providers, and other wholesale customers. The classification applies to businesses where dairy products constitute the main wholesale activity rather than being part of a broader grocery range.
Examples of businesses in this class include specialist cheese wholesalers supplying delicatessens and restaurants, dairy distributors providing fresh milk and cream to cafes and supermarkets, frozen dessert companies supplying ice cream to convenience stores, butter and cream specialists working with commercial bakeries, and dedicated dairy product importers focusing exclusively on international cheese and dairy lines.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class typically engage in one or more of the following activities:
- Wholesaling butter to commercial customers
- Distributing cheese to retailers and food service businesses
- Supplying fresh cream to commercial kitchens and manufacturers
- Wholesaling various dairy products including yogurt, custard, and dairy-based ingredients
- Distributing frozen desserts to retail outlets
- Supplying ice cream to stores and food service providers
- Wholesaling fresh milk (excluding canned or long-life milk in cans)
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes certain activities that fall under different ANZSIC classifications. Businesses primarily engaged in wholesaling canned milk are included in class 3609 (Other Grocery Wholesaling) rather than this class. Similarly, operations that wholesale dairy products as part of a wide variety of other grocery items belong in class 3601 (General Line Grocery Wholesaling).
The distinction depends on whether dairy products represent the business's primary wholesale focus or constitute just one category among many grocery items. Businesses should assess their primary revenue sources and product focus when determining the appropriate classification.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select the appropriate Business Industry Code (BIC), which aligns with your ANZSIC classification. For dairy produce wholesaling, the relevant BIC is typically 36030. This classification affects your business activity statements and how the ATO categorises your operations.
Your ANZSIC code also influences your workers' compensation premiums through state-based schemes like WorkCover, as different industry classifications carry different risk ratings. When applying for industry-specific grants or government assistance programs, ensure you're using the correct classification, as some programs may target specific industry sectors. Keep accurate records of your primary business activities, as these may be reviewed for classification verification purposes.