What this class covers
ANZSIC class 1916 categorises Australian businesses primarily engaged in manufacturing paints, coatings, and inks through the mixing of pigments, solvents, and binders. This classification encompasses both traditional solvent-based products and modern water-based formulations used across construction, industrial, and consumer markets. The sector includes manufacturers producing ready-mixed paints, custom tinting services, and specialized coatings for specific applications such as concrete sealing or timber protection.
Typical operations in this class include a small batch manufacturer producing premium decking oils for hardware stores, a commercial paint factory supplying industrial enamels to manufacturing plants, or an ink producer creating specialty formulations for the printing industry. The classification also covers businesses manufacturing allied products like caulking compounds, putties, and paint removers that support the broader coatings ecosystem. Operations range from automated large-scale production facilities to artisanal workshops creating specialty artistic inks.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class typically engage in:
- Manufacturing various types of paint including undercoats, top coats, primers, and enamels
- Producing wood stains and protective coatings for decks and outdoor timber
- Making varnishes, lacquers, and shellacs for surface protection
- Manufacturing printing inks for commercial, packaging, and publication applications
- Producing writing and drawing inks for stationery and artistic use
- Creating inkjet printer inks and toner cartridges (excluding facial toners)
- Making caulking compounds, putties, and fillers for construction applications
- Producing paint and varnish removers and rubbing compounds
- Manufacturing water repellent coatings for concrete and masonry surfaces
- Operating paint tinting services and custom colour matching facilities
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes several related manufacturing activities that fall under different ANZSIC classifications:
Manufacturing of bituminous paints and creosote is classified under Class 1709 (Other Petroleum and Coal Product Manufacturing) as these products derive from petroleum distillation processes rather than polymer chemistry.
Facial toners and cleansers for cosmetic use are excluded from this class and instead belong to Class 1852 (Cosmetic and Toiletry Preparation Manufacturing), reflecting their different formulation standards and regulatory requirements.
Wallpaper manufacturing is classified under Class 1529 (Other Converted Paper Product Manufacturing) as it primarily involves paper conversion rather than coating formulation.
Businesses manufacturing adhesive products should consult Group 191 for related classifications, as some adhesive manufacturing may fall under adjacent codes depending on formulation and primary use.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, accurately selecting ANZSIC 1916 ensures correct classification for tax purposes and Business Activity Statements. The Australian Taxation Office uses this code to determine your GST reporting requirements and eligibility for various tax concessions available to manufacturing businesses.
For workers' compensation insurance, this classification typically falls under manufacturing risk categories, which may have different premium calculations compared to retail or wholesale operations. State-based WorkSafe authorities use ANZSIC codes to assign risk categories, so accurate reporting is essential for appropriate coverage and premium calculations.
Businesses in this classification may qualify for manufacturing grants and incentives at both federal and state levels. The classification helps government agencies identify businesses that might benefit from programs supporting domestic manufacturing, research and development, or export development initiatives specific to the chemicals manufacturing sector.
The corresponding BIC code 19160 (Paint and Ink Manufacturing) is used in international trade contexts and may appear on import/export documentation. Maintaining accurate classification records helps with industry benchmarking, market analysis, and complying with product safety regulations specific to chemical manufacturing in Australia.