Research Codes

The Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC) is a set of three classifications developed for use in the measurement and analysis of research and experimental development (R&D) statistics in Australia and New Zealand. The three classifications are:  Fields of Research (FoR); Socio-Economic Objectives (SEO); and Type of Activity (ToA).

Fields of Research (FOR) codes

This classification allows research activity to be categorised according to the field of research. In this respect, it is the methodology used in the research that is being considered.

Please refer to the Australian Bureau of Statistics or Stats NZ websites for a list of current FOR codes:

Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) codes

This classification allows research to be categorised according to the purpose or outcome of the research as perceived by the data provider (researcher). It consists of discrete economic, social, technological or scientific domains for identifying the principal purposes of the research. The attributes applied to the design of the SEO classification comprise a combination of processes, products, health, education and other social and environmental aspects of particular interest.

Please refer to the Australian Bureau of Statistics or Stats NZ websites for a list of current SEO codes:

Types of activity

There are four types of activity applicable to research and development which are recognised by the Australian Standard Research Classifications.

Pure basic research

Pure basic research activity is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge without looking for long term benefits other than the advancement of knowledge.

Strategic basic research

Strategic basic research activity is experimental and theoretical work undertaken to acquire new knowledge directed into specified broad areas in the expectation of useful discoveries. It provides the broad base of knowledge necessary for the solution of recognised practical problems.

Applied research

Applied research activity is original work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge with a specific application in view. It is undertaken either to determine possible uses for the findings of basic research or to determine new ways of achieving some specific and predetermined objectives.

Experimental development

Experimental development activity is systematic work, using existing knowledge gained from research or practical experience, that is directed to producing new materials, products or devices, to installing new processes, systems and services, or to improving substantially those already produced or installed.