What this class covers
ANZSIC class 9002 classifies independent creative professionals and technical specialists who create original artistic or cultural works in Australia. This includes freelance individuals and small groups regularly engaged in artistic creation who may also produce and perform their own works. The classification captures the core creative process rather than the reproduction or performance of existing works.
Typical operations in this class include a self-employed novelist writing original fiction, a freelance composer creating music scores, an independent choreographer developing dance routines, or a visual artist producing original paintings or sculptures. The class also includes technical specialists like costume designers and lighting designers working on original productions, as well as celebrities who primarily earn income through endorsements, speeches, or public appearances.
This classification is used by government agencies for statistical reporting, by businesses for industry benchmarking, and by service providers to understand the creative sector. It helps identify the contribution of original creative work to Australia's economy and cultural landscape.
Primary activities in plain English
This class includes professionals engaged in:
- Creating original visual art, including painting, sculpting, and cartooning
- Writing original works such as novels, poetry, screenplays, and journalism
- Composing original music and creating musical works
- Choreographing dance routines and movement works
- Designing costumes, sets, or lighting for original productions
- Performing stand-up comedy or other original performance works
- Working as freelance dancers or musicians creating their own material
- Providing speaking services including radio and television announcing
- Engaging in celebrity activities like product endorsements and paid appearances
Exclusions and nearby codes
Some activities are specifically excluded from this class and classified elsewhere:
Performance or reproduction of existing works falls under ANZSIC 9001 (Performing Arts Operation). This includes musicians performing covers, theatre companies staging existing plays, or dance groups performing established routines.
Casting agencies and talent management services are classified in ANZSIC 7211 (Employment Placement and Recruitment Services) as they focus on connecting talent with opportunities rather than creating original works.
Businesses that primarily teach creative arts rather than create original works would typically fall under ANZSIC division P (Education and Training) based on their main activity.
Practical guidance
If you operate as a freelance creative professional in Australia, your business activity likely falls under ANZSIC 9002. This classification may be relevant when:
Registering for an ABN - you'll need to select an appropriate industry classification that matches your primary creative activity.
Completing business activity statements - ensure you understand GST obligations if your annual turnover exceeds $75,000.
Applying for grants - many arts funding programs require accurate industry classification and may have specific criteria for original creative work.
Arranging insurance - consider professional indemnity, public liability, and income protection insurance tailored to creative professionals.
Understanding workers' compensation - as a sole trader, you're typically responsible for your own coverage, but requirements vary by state if you employ staff.
Keep detailed records of your creative projects, expenses, and income streams, as these may be important for tax purposes and demonstrating your professional practice.