What this class covers
ANZSIC class 9131 classifies businesses that operate amusement parks, arcades, and recreation centres across Australia. These establishments provide entertainment and leisure services primarily through mechanical rides, games, and participatory activities. The classification encompasses operations based at fixed or permanent locations, as well as selected mobile amusement operators who maintain consistent business operations.
Typical businesses in this class include major theme parks offering multiple attractions, water parks with slides and pools, indoor climbing facilities with artificial walls, and family entertainment centres featuring arcade games and mini-golf. The classification applies whether operations are standalone facilities or concessions within larger venues, provided the primary activity falls within the amusement and recreation scope.
This classification is used by government agencies, researchers, and industry bodies to track the amusement and recreation sector's economic contribution. Businesses use this code when registering for ABNs, applying for specific industry grants, or reporting statistical data to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 9131 typically engage in one or more of the following activities:
- Operating amusement arcades or centres with coin-operated games and machines
- Running amusement rides and machines, including concession operations within other venues
- Managing amusement parks and theme parks with multiple attractions and rides
- Operating go-kart racing tracks and venues
- Providing indoor climbing facilities with artificial walls and safety equipment
- Running traditional merry-go-rounds and carousel operations
- Operating mini-golf or putt-putt golf centres
- Managing water parks with slides, pools, and aquatic attractions
Exclusions and nearby codes
Certain activities that might seem related to amusement parks are specifically excluded from ANZSIC 9131 and classified elsewhere:
Golf course operations, including practice ranges and facilities, fall under Class 9113: Sports and Physical Recreation Venues, Grounds and Facilities Operation. This distinction separates traditional sports facilities from amusement-oriented recreation.
Theme parks with primarily historical or heritage themes that feature authentic artifacts, buildings, or educational exhibits are classified under Class 8910: Museum Operation rather than amusement parks, as their primary focus is preservation and education rather than entertainment.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to specify Business Industry Code (BIC) 91310, which corresponds directly to ANZSIC 9131. This classification affects your business reporting requirements and may influence your eligibility for industry-specific grants, particularly those supporting tourism and recreation development.
For taxation purposes, ensure your activity statements accurately reflect the nature of your amusement operations. Different goods and services may have varying GST treatments – for example, admission fees versus food and merchandise sales. Maintain clear records separating these revenue streams.
Workers' compensation premiums for amusement operations are typically classified under higher risk categories due to the physical nature of the attractions and public interaction. Implement comprehensive safety protocols and training programs, as WorkCover authorities may conduct inspections of amusement rides and equipment.
When applying for local government permits or development approvals, your ANZSIC classification helps authorities understand your business operations. Amusement parks often require specific zoning approvals and must comply with Australian standards for ride safety and public liability insurance requirements.