What this class covers
ANZSIC class 4251 categorises Australian businesses primarily engaged in retailing new clothing and clothing accessories from physical store locations. This classification applies to retailers operating dedicated brick-and-mortar stores where clothing constitutes the main business activity. The class encompasses both specialty clothing stores and clothing departments within larger retail establishments, provided clothing sales represent the primary revenue source.
Typical businesses in this class include fashion boutiques, clothing chain stores, specialty sportswear retailers, workwear suppliers, and department store clothing sections. These operations source new clothing items from manufacturers or wholesalers and sell them directly to consumers through permanent retail premises. The classification helps government agencies, researchers, and industry bodies track retail performance and economic contributions of the clothing sector.
Examples include a suburban women's fashion boutique, a CBD-based business suit retailer, a shopping centre sportswear store, a dedicated work clothing supplier, and a department store's clothing section as their primary activity.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 4251 typically engage in one or more of these activities:
- Operating retail stores selling clothing items for men, women, or children
- Retailing specialized clothing such as sports apparel, work uniforms, or formal wear
- Selling clothing accessories including gloves, hosiery, hats, and millinery
- Retailing foundation garments like bras and shapewear
- Selling leather or fur clothing items through dedicated retail premises
Exclusions and nearby codes
Certain retail activities are specifically excluded from this classification. Businesses primarily engaged in retailing second-hand clothing are classified under ANZSIC 4273: Antique and Used Goods Retailing. This distinction separates new clothing retail from second-hand or vintage clothing operations.
Retailers focusing on personal accessories other than clothing and footwear (such as jewellery, watches, or sunglasses) fall under ANZSIC 4259: Other Personal Accessory Retailing. Businesses operating without a permanent retail presence, such as online-only clothing retailers or market stall operators, typically classify under different non-store retailing categories.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll typically use ANZSIC 4251 if you operate a physical store primarily selling new clothing items. This classification may affect your Business Industry Code (BIC 42510) for tax and reporting purposes. Clothing retailers with annual turnover exceeding $75,000 must register for GST and submit Business Activity Statements.
For workers' compensation insurance, clothing retailers generally fall under retail industry classifications, though premium rates may vary by state and specific business activities. When applying for business grants or industry support programs, ensure you use the correct ANZSIC code as eligibility criteria often reference specific classifications. Maintain accurate records as the ATO may verify your business activities match your declared ANZSIC classification.