Research Category Codes

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has recently introduced new sets of codes to replace the outdated Research Course Field and Discipline (RFCD) and Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) codes. This was done in conjunction with Statistics New Zealand (Statistics NZ) and the codes are referred to as The Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification (ANZSRC).
 
The FOR (Field of Research) codes are an expanded and updated set of the old RFCD codes. The new SEO codes are an expanded and updated set of the old SEO codes. These codes will be utilised in the Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) initiative.

The Australian Standard Research Classification (ASRC) is the collective name for a set of three related classifications developed for use in the measurement and analysis of research and experimental development undertaken in Australia, both in the public and private sectors. It allows the comparison of Research and Development data between sectors of the Australian economy.

Use of these classifications ensures that research and development statistics and statistics collected from higher education institutions are useful to governments, educational institutions, international organisations, scientific, professional or business organisations, business enterprises, community groups and private individuals.

• FOR Classification
  This refers to Fields of Research (FOR) Classification. Details can be found at Australian Bureau of Statistics website.
• SEO Codes
  This refers to Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) Codes. Details can be found at the Australian Bureau of Statistics website.

Type of Activity Code

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

1. Pure Basic Research
   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
   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
   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
   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.