OVERVIEW OF THE GST START-UP ASSISTANCE OFFICE

On 13 August 1999, the GST Start-Up Assistance Office (GSTSAO) was established within the Department of Treasury to administer the $500 million assistance set aside by the Government to assist Small and Medium Enterprises, the Community sector and Education (SMECEs) institutions get ready for the GST. The GSTSAO administered these funds in consultation with The New Tax System Advisory Board, the Business Advisory Panel and the Community Sector Advisory Panel.

The GST Start-Up Assistance Office delivered programmes until 28 February 2001, and and closed on 30 June 2001.

The assistance funds were used to deliver four programmes described below.

Organisation Delivered Assistance (ODA) Programme
Advisor Education Programme
Business Skills Education Programme
Direct Assistance Programme

A summary of achievements under these programmes can be found below.

Achievements to February 2001