What this class covers
ANZSIC Class 6639 captures businesses that provide rental, leasing, or hiring services for a wide variety of goods and equipment that don't fit into more specific Australian industry classifications. This is a residual category, meaning it acts as a catch-all for rental activities not covered elsewhere in the ANZSIC system. Businesses in this class typically generate revenue by providing temporary access to physical items in exchange for a fee, without transferring ownership.
In practical Australian terms, this classification applies to enterprises that rent out items for short-term use by consumers or other businesses. Common examples include a local shop hiring out costumes for parties and events, a operator renting out camping and hiking gear to tourists, a business providing furniture rental for temporary accommodations or offices, a tool library lending equipment to DIY enthusiasts, and a company specialising in pot plant hire for corporate events or interior decoration.
The classification is used across Australian government and industry contexts for statistical reporting, market analysis, and regulatory purposes. When registering your business or applying for certain licenses, you may need to specify this ANZSIC code to accurately describe your primary economic activity.
Primary activities in plain English
Businesses classified under ANZSIC 6639 typically engage in one or more of the following activities:
- Renting coin-operated amusement machines to venues
- Hiring artwork to offices, hotels, or galleries
- Providing bicycle rentals for recreational use
- Offering camping equipment for hire to outdoor enthusiasts
- Costume hire for events, parties, and theatrical productions
- DIY equipment rental including tools and machinery
- Renting electric and electronic appliances
- Furniture rental for temporary living or office spaces
- Hand tool rental for construction or home projects
- Office machinery rental including printers and copiers
- Pot plant hire for decorative purposes
- Sound equipment rental for events
- Sports and recreation equipment rental
- Suit and formalwear hire
- Video recorder or player rental (equipment only, not media)
Exclusions and nearby codes
This class specifically excludes certain rental activities that have their own dedicated ANZSIC classifications. Most notably, businesses engaged in renting and hiring pre-recorded video tapes, discs, or other electronic media fall under Class 6632: Video and Other Electronic Media Rental and Hiring. This distinction separates content rental from equipment rental.
Other nearby classifications include rental services for motor vehicles (Division M), real estate renting (Division L), and heavy machinery rental (Group 663). Understanding these distinctions is important for accurate business classification, which affects statistical reporting, regulatory compliance, and industry benchmarking.
Practical guidance
When establishing a rental business in this classification, you'll need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and potentially for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your annual turnover exceeds $75,000. Your Business Industry Code (BIC) will typically be 66390, which aligns with this ANZSIC class for tax reporting purposes.
For workers' compensation insurance, your premium will be calculated based on this industry classification and the specific risks associated with your rental operations. Keep detailed records of rental agreements, maintenance schedules, and safety checks, as these may be required for insurance purposes or regulatory compliance.
Some state and territory governments offer grants or support programs for small businesses in the rental sector, particularly those focusing on sustainable practices like bicycle sharing or tool libraries. Check with your local business advisory service for current opportunities. Always consult with a qualified accountant or business advisor regarding your specific tax obligations and reporting requirements.