What this class covers
ANZSIC class 9491 categorises businesses primarily engaged in repairing clothing and footwear items throughout Australia. This classification falls under Division S (Other Services) and specifically within the Repair and Maintenance subdivision. Businesses in this class typically operate from retail premises, market stalls, or mobile repair services, providing essential maintenance and restoration services to consumers.
Common examples include local cobblers repairing shoe soles and heels, alteration specialists fixing garments, tailors mending clothing items, leather repair services restoring bags and jackets, and businesses specializing in zipper replacements and seam repairs. These operations focus on extending the life of clothing and footwear rather than manufacturing new items, distinguishing them from retail and production businesses.
The classification is used by government agencies, statistical organisations, and industry bodies to track the performance and composition of Australia's repair services sector. It helps in economic reporting, policy development, and understanding industry trends for this niche but important service category.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 9491 typically engage in the following activities:
- Repairing and altering clothing items including suits, dresses, trousers, and jackets
- Fixing footwear such as shoes, boots, and sandals including sole and heel replacement
- Mending tears, replacing zippers, and repairing seams on garments
- Restoring leather goods including bags, belts, and jackets alongside footwear
- Providing specialist repair services for specific materials or garment types
Exclusions and nearby codes
ANZSIC 9491 specifically excludes certain activities that might seem related but fall under different classifications. Textile dyeing services are excluded from this class and are instead classified under ANZSIC 1334 (Textile Finishing and Other Textile Product Manufacturing). Similarly, shoe shining services without repair work are excluded and classified under ANZSIC 9539 (Other Personal Services n.e.c.).
Nearby classifications include ANZSIC 949 (Other Repair and Maintenance) which encompasses broader repair services, and ANZSIC 1334 for textile finishing operations. Businesses that primarily retail clothing or footwear rather than repair them would typically be classified under retail divisions rather than this repair-focused class.
Practical guidance
When registering your clothing or footwear repair business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select ANZSIC 9491 as your primary classification if repair services are your main activity. This classification affects your Business Industry Code (BIC) for tax purposes and reporting requirements.
For workers' compensation insurance, your premium may be influenced by this classification, as different industries have varying risk profiles. Check with your state's WorkSafe authority for specific rates applicable to repair services. While industry-specific grants for clothing and footwear repair businesses are limited, maintaining accurate classification ensures eligibility for broader small business support programs.
Keep records that demonstrate your primary activity is repair work, as this may be relevant for tax purposes and any industry-specific regulations. If your business expands into excluded activities like textile dyeing, you may need to review your ANZSIC classification to ensure accuracy.