Business advisers to small and medium business, including community and education bodies, can attend free local courses on how to get ready for the GST. The courses start from late February and will be held in over 70 locations Australia-wide.

The courses will be particularly relevant to those who give business advice, even free advice, as part of a wider advisory role. Such people could include treasurers of community groups, regional tourism officers, community advisers, stock and station agents, members of service clubs, welfare organisations, parents and citizens groups, trade associations, ethnic and indigenous groups. The content will particularly suit those without formal accounting or taxation qualifications.

Chairman of The New Tax System Advisory Board, Chris Jordan, said "The free courses are aimed at people who are part of a broad network of informal advisers.

"These people are true ‘community citizens’ because they provide their time and knowledge free of charge to help local small businesses, charities and non-profit groups or educational organisations.

"It is very important that advisers and volunteers within the community can access user-friendly GST information to help the important organisations and networks they serve.

"The courses will cover everything small business, community and education sector advisers need to know about the GST. Full course material will be provided and participants who complete the courses will receive a formal ‘Record of Participation’ acknowledging their attendance," Mr Jordan said.

Courses will be held in (location) on (dates) at (time).

The series of three, three-hour courses will deal with:

The courses are funded by the Commonwealth Government through the GST Start-Up Assistance Office. Personnel from TEO Training Pty Ltd who will present the courses assisted small businesses in New Zealand prepare for the GST. Regional and rural areas have been specifically catered for in course design and the range of locations.

People wishing to register for the free courses or obtain more information can ring 1800 351 754 (Toll Free) or visit or Web site on www.gststartup.gov.au - Or you can fax 03 9375 7488 or email teotraining1@optusnet.com.au