What this class covers
ANZSIC class 3244 categorises businesses primarily engaged in applying paint, coatings, and wallcoverings to residential, commercial, and industrial structures throughout Australia. This classification captures the essential finishing work that protects surfaces and enhances aesthetic appeal in the construction industry. Businesses in this class typically work on both interior and exterior surfaces of buildings, using various application methods including brushing, rolling, and spray techniques.
Examples of operations falling within this classification include residential house painters who refresh home exteriors and interiors, commercial painting contractors working on office fit-outs, industrial painting specialists maintaining factory facilities, decorative painters offering feature walls and specialised finishes, and wallpaper installation services for both residential and commercial clients. These businesses form part of the broader building completion services sector within Australia's construction industry.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 3244 typically engage in:
- Applying paint to residential properties including houses, apartments, and townhouses
- Painting commercial and industrial buildings such as offices, retail spaces, and warehouses
- Using spray painting equipment for large-scale or specialised coating applications
- Installing wallpaper and other wallcoverings in interior spaces
- Providing surface preparation services including sanding, filling, and priming
- Applying protective and decorative coatings to structural elements
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes roofing painting, spraying, or coating services, which are classified under ANZSIC 3223: Roofing Services. This distinction is important as roof coating often involves specialised materials and techniques different from general building painting.
Businesses primarily engaged in automotive painting fall under manufacturing classifications rather than construction services. Similarly, businesses specialising in artistic or sign painting are classified elsewhere in the ANZSIC system. Painting contractors should ensure they're using the correct classification based on their primary revenue-generating activities.
Practical guidance
When registering your painting business with the Australian Business Register, ANZSIC class 3244 is the appropriate classification for most painting and decorating operations. The corresponding BIC code 32440 aligns with this classification for statistical reporting purposes.
For workers' compensation insurance, painting businesses typically fall under risk classifications related to construction trades, with premiums calculated based on wages and the specific risks associated working at heights and with chemical products. Keep detailed records of all projects, materials used, and safety procedures implemented.
Painting businesses with an annual turnover of $75,000 or more must register for GST and lodge regular Business Activity Statements. Maintain separate records for materials (which may qualify for GST credits) and labour components. Various state and federal business grants may be available for equipment upgrades or apprentice employment in the painting trade.