The Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICA) are joining forces with the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants (ASCPA) to provide a complete GST business skills information service targeting small and medium business, the community sector and educational bodies.

New option for callers! Just by calling 13 30 88, trained operators are ready to answer calls covering GST business skills issues specific to business, and now the community sector and education sector.

Chris Jordan, Chairman of the New Tax System Advisory Board welcomed the additional service saying, "With two of Australia’s top accounting bodies working together the helpline is now able to assist a huge spread of the community".

"The GST Business Assist Helpline is part of the $500m administered by the GST Start-Up Assistance Office to help small and medium businesses, community sector and education bodies adjust their businesses to the GST".

"We understand that the community and educational sector have very different needs from small and medium businesses—this additional service covers issues specific to their sector to help them get GST-ready".

The Helpline covers issues such as cash-flow management, business practices and other issues these sectors should think about to prepare for the GST.

The Executive Director of the ICA, Stephen Harrison said that the additional service for the educational, community and charitable institutions meant that Chartered Accountants and CPAs would be providing comprehensive and sector-specific information which is much needed.

"The two bodies will be cooperating in the market split between small business and the work with the wider community" he said.

David Edwards, ASCPA Executive Director said "The GST Business Assist Helpline is running smoothly and providing an essential service for the small and medium business community."

"The Helpline has answered queries from a variety of businesses, including cleaners, real estate agents, farmers and exporters."

"Callers have responded positively and we welcome the additional service on the same phone number for the community sector and education sector."

The Helpline is open from 9am to 9pm nationally with a local call cost. A translation service is available.