What this class covers
ANZSIC class 1612 encompasses businesses that provide essential support services to the printing industry in Australia without actually operating printing presses themselves. These specialized service providers handle critical pre-production, post-production, and finishing tasks that enable printing operations to function efficiently. The classification specifically targets operations that support printing activities through technical and finishing services rather than the actual printing process.
Typical businesses in this class include specialized pre-press studios that handle typesetting and colour separation for commercial printers, bookbinding workshops that serve publishing houses and print shops, and finishing service providers offering laminating, embossing, or other value-added treatments to printed materials. These operations often work as subcontractors to larger printing firms or directly with clients who need specialized printing preparation or finishing services.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 1612 typically engage in these specific activities:
- Pre-press services including digital typesetting, image setting, and colour separation preparation
- Platemaking services for printing presses
- Bookbinding and book repair services
- Post-press finishing services such as laminating, embossing, or foil stamping
- Specialized printing support services not elsewhere classified
These activities represent the technical and finishing stages of print production that occur either before the actual printing process (pre-press) or after printing is completed (post-press).
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes businesses that primarily operate printing presses or photocopying equipment. These activities fall under ANZSIC class 1611 Printing, which covers the actual printing process rather than support services.
Other related classifications include ANZSIC group 161 Printing and Printing Support Services, which encompasses both printing and support activities, and ANZSIC division C Manufacturing, which contains the broader manufacturing context for these operations.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select ANZSIC class 1612 if your primary activity involves printing support services rather than actual printing. This classification may affect your workers' compensation insurance premiums, as manufacturing classifications typically have different risk profiles than service industries.
For tax purposes, businesses in this class should maintain detailed records of equipment purchases, as printing support services often involve specialized machinery that may qualify for depreciation benefits. When applying for business grants or industry assistance programs, ensure you're using the correct ANZSIC code, as some programs target specific manufacturing subsectors.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics uses this classification for economic data collection, so accurate reporting helps maintain reliable industry statistics for the printing and manufacturing sectors in Australia.