What this class covers
ANZSIC class 6020 categorises businesses that provide specialised information services outside traditional library, publishing, or broadcasting operations. This classification applies to Australian enterprises engaged in collecting, processing, and distributing information through specific channels rather than creating original content. Typical operations include organisations that gather news from various sources and supply it to media companies, or services that deliver pre-recorded information via telephone systems.
Businesses in this class might operate news agencies that compile and distribute news reports to newspapers and broadcasters, telephone information services providing stock market updates or weather reports, or specialised information bureaus that collect and supply industry-specific data. These operations focus on the aggregation and delivery of information rather than content creation or publishing.
The classification is used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics for data collection, by government agencies for policy development, and by businesses themselves when registering for ABNs and complying with reporting requirements. It helps distinguish information service providers from content creators and publishers in the broader information media landscape.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 6020 typically engage in:
- Operating news collection services that gather and distribute news to media organisations
- Providing telephone-based recorded information services on specific topics
- Operating information bureaus that collect and supply specialised data to clients
- Running services that compile and distribute factual information without editorial content creation
These activities focus on the technical process of information collection and distribution rather than creative content production or opinion-based journalism.
Exclusions and nearby codes
ANZSIC 6020 specifically excludes several related activities that fall under different classifications. Writing articles without publishing them is classified under ANZSIC 9002 (Creative Artists, Musicians, Writers and Performers) as this involves content creation rather than information service provision.
Nearby classifications include Division J (Information Media and Telecommunications) which encompasses the broader sector, and Group 602 (Other Information Services) which contains this class. Traditional publishing activities fall under ANZSIC 5410-5419, while broadcasting operations are classified in ANZSIC 5510-5520.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select Business Industry Code (BIC) 60200 which corresponds to ANZSIC 6020. This classification may affect your workers' compensation insurance premiums as rates vary between information services and content creation activities.
For tax purposes, maintain clear records distinguishing revenue from information services versus content creation, as different deductions and treatment may apply. Businesses in this classification should also investigate potential grants available for information service providers, particularly those supporting media diversity or specialised information dissemination.
When completing Business Activity Statements, ensure you correctly classify your services as information provision rather than publishing or broadcasting. If your business activities span multiple classifications, you may need to register under multiple BIC codes or seek professional advice about dominant activity classification.