What this class covers
ANZSIC class 3339 applies to Australian businesses primarily engaged in wholesaling hardware goods and building materials that are not classified as timber products or plumbing supplies. This classification captures distributors and merchants who supply construction and building materials to retailers, tradespeople, and other businesses rather than directly to consumers.
Typical businesses in this category include building supply wholesalers specializing in materials like bricks, cement, and plaster; hardware distributors offering hand and power tools, locks, and fencing materials; and specialist suppliers of products such as insulation materials, ceramic tiles, or wallpaper. These operations form part of the supply chain for Australia's construction and renovation industries, providing essential materials to both residential and commercial projects.
The classification is used by government agencies, researchers, and businesses themselves to understand industry trends, market size, and economic contributions. For business owners, correct classification affects regulatory compliance, insurance requirements, and eligibility for industry-specific programs or reporting.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses in this class are primarily engaged in:
- Wholesaling construction materials including bricks, cement, plaster, and sand
- Distributing building supplies such as wall and ceiling boards, roofing materials, and insulation
- Supplying hardware items including hand tools, power tools, garden tools, and locks
- Wholesaling finishing products like paint, stains, wallpaper, and ceramic tiles
- Distributing specialized building components such as doors, windows, roller shutters, and fencing materials
- Supplying wire products (excluding electrical cable) including fencing wire, wire netting, and reinforcing wire
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes several related activities that fall under different ANZSIC classifications:
Businesses primarily wholesaling plumbing goods are classified separately under ANZSIC 3332 (Plumbing Goods Wholesaling). Similarly, timber wholesaling operations are included in ANZSIC 3331 rather than this class.
Other exclusions include wholesaling of abrasive cleansers (classified under ANZSIC 3323), textile awnings (ANZSIC 3711), non-ceramic floor tiles (ANZSIC 3731), and electric cable (ANZSIC 3494). Installation services for insulation, tiles, or other building components are classified within Division E (Construction) rather than wholesale trade.
Practical guidance
Businesses operating in this classification should ensure their Australian Business Number (ABN) registration reflects their primary wholesale activity. When completing Business Activity Statements and tax returns, use Business Industry Code (BIC) 33390 to align with this ANZSIC classification.
Workers' compensation requirements vary by state and territory, but businesses typically fall under wholesale trade classifications rather than retail or manufacturing categories. Insurance providers may require details about specific products handled, particularly for hazardous materials like chemicals or heavy building products.
While no specific grants target this classification exclusively, businesses may qualify for industry-wide programs supporting wholesale trade, export development, or supply chain efficiency. Maintaining accurate classification helps ensure eligibility for relevant programs and simplifies industry benchmarking and reporting.