What this class covers
ANZSIC class 5802 covers Australian businesses that operate and maintain wireless telecommunications networks for transmitting voice, data, text, sound, and video. These operations use wireless technologies including radio waves, satellite systems, or combinations of technologies to provide communications services. Unlike wired networks, these services rely on wireless transmission infrastructure that can be omni-directional or point-to-point.
Typical businesses in this classification include mobile network operators providing cellular services, satellite communication companies offering remote area coverage, and providers of wireless Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services. These operations involve maintaining switching facilities, transmission towers, and satellite ground stations rather than physical cabling infrastructure. The classification applies to businesses that own and operate their own network infrastructure rather than reselling services on others' networks.
Examples include a regional mobile network operator maintaining cellular towers, a satellite internet provider operating ground stations and satellite links, or a specialized wireless VoIP service using proprietary wireless infrastructure. These businesses typically invest significant capital in transmission equipment and require spectrum licensing from the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
Primary activities in plain English
- Operating mobile phone networks including cellular and wireless broadband services
- Running satellite communication networks for voice, data, or internet services
- Providing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services using wireless infrastructure
- Maintaining and operating wireless transmission facilities like towers and antennas
- Managing satellite ground stations and related communication infrastructure
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes several related activities that fall under other ANZSIC classifications. Businesses operating wired telecommunications networks (using copper, fibre, or other physical cables) belong in class 5801 Wired Telecommunications Network Operation. Companies that resell telecommunications services without operating their own network infrastructure are classified under 5809 Other Telecommunications Services.
Television broadcasting activities, including pay or subscription television services, are excluded from this class and fall under 5622 Cable and Other Subscription Broadcasting. Additionally, businesses primarily engaged in constructing or installing telecommunications infrastructure (such as tower erection or cable laying) are classified in 3109 Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction rather than network operation.
Practical guidance
When registering your business with the Australian Business Register, you'll need to select the appropriate Business Industry Code (BIC). For this classification, the corresponding BIC is 58020. This code is used for tax reporting and industry statistics collection by the Australian Taxation Office and Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Your ANZSIC classification can affect workers' compensation premiums as different classifications have varying risk profiles. Telecommunications network operation typically falls under different premium categories than construction or retail activities. Some government grants or industry programs may be specific to telecommunications classifications, so ensure you're using the correct code when applying.
If your business operates both wireless and wired networks, you may need to consider whether separate classifications apply to different parts of your operation. The classification is based on the primary activity, so if most revenue comes from wireless operations, class 5802 would be appropriate even if some wired services are offered.