Research Category Codes

• Fields of Research (FOR) Classification
• Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) Codes
• Type of Activity
  

Fields of Research (FOR) Classification

The FOR (Field of Research) codes are an expanded and updated set of the old RFCD codes. RFCD codes are no longer valid.

Details can be found at Australian Bureau of Statistics website.

Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) Codes

The new SEO codes are an expanded and updated set of the old SEO codes. Previous SEO codes are no longer valid.

Details can be found at the Australian Bureau of Statistics website.

Type 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
   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.