Research Codes

Following a recent review of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC), new research classification code lists were released on 30 June 2020.

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 2020 FOR codes:

For a list of the previous 2008 FOR codes please see:

For additional information, please see the Australian Bureau of Statistics (opens in a new window)

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 2020 SEO codes:

For a list of the previous 2008 SEO codes please see:

For additional information, please see the Australian Bureau of Statistics (opens in a new window)

Types of activity

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.