What this class covers
ANZSIC class 2611 categorises businesses that generate electricity primarily through the combustion of fossil fuels in Australia. This classification applies to operations using conventional steam processes, internal combustion engines, or combustion turbines powered by mineral-based fuels. These facilities typically feed electricity into the national grid or supply large industrial customers directly.
Common examples include coal-fired power stations burning black or brown coal, natural gas-fired power plants (including those using coal seam gas), diesel-powered generators supplying remote communities or mining operations, and dual-fuel facilities capable of switching between gas and liquid fuels. The classification also covers electricity generation using petroleum coke or other fossil fuel derivatives.
This code is used across Australian government systems for business registration, statistical reporting, and industry analysis. The classification helps track the contribution of fossil fuel-based generation to Australia's energy mix and informs policy development in the energy sector.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class primarily engage in:
- Operating power stations that burn coal or coal products to generate electricity
- Running electricity generation facilities using natural gas, including coal seam gas
- Producing electricity from mineral oils or petroleum products like diesel
- Generating power using other fossil-based mineral fuels not elsewhere classified
These activities typically involve large-scale combustion processes where heat produces steam to drive turbines or where fuels directly power internal combustion engines connected to generators.
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes electricity generation from renewable or waste-derived sources. For example, power generation using biomass gases like methane from landfill or agricultural waste falls under ANZSIC class 2619 (Other Electricity Generation).
Businesses primarily engaged in electricity transmission or distribution belong to different classifications within the electricity supply subdivision. Similarly, operations focused on fossil fuel extraction rather than electricity generation fall under mining divisions.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select ANZSIC class 2611 if fossil fuel electricity generation is your primary activity. This classification affects your Business Industry Code (BIC 26110) for tax purposes and may influence your GST registration details.
Workers' compensation insurance classifications for this industry typically fall under specific risk categories for power generation, which may have higher premium rates due to the hazardous nature of large-scale energy production. You should consult your state's WorkSafe authority for precise classification.
Businesses in this sector should be aware of specific reporting obligations, including potential requirements under the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Scheme. Eligibility for certain energy sector grants or programs may also depend on accurate ANZSIC classification.