The one millionth GST Start-Up Certificate has been issued through the GST Start-Up Assistance Office. The Certificate has a face value of $200 and is available to small and medium businesses and community organisations which apply for the Australian Business Number (ABN) and register for the GST before 31 May 2000.

"Registration for the ABN and GST can be made through the Australian Taxation Office on www.business.gov.au, your accountant or through a registration package available from your newsagent, post office or major bank," said Chris Jordan, Chairman of The New Tax System Advisory Board.

"Certificates are issued after ABN and GST registration is confirmed.

"While the level of registrations has been running strongly, I encourage all those who haven’t yet registered to do so by 31 May to ensure their readiness for the GST on 1 July," Mr Jordan said.

"There is a lot of free help available which can be accessed through the GST Start-Up Assistance Office at www.gststartup.gov.au or the GST Assist Helpline on 13 30 88.

Wherever you are in Australia, you can attend a seminar run by one of more than 130 industry and profession associations – and receive information materials to help your business," Mr Jordan said.

Certificates can be redeemed at registered suppliers for products and services to assist businesses become GST-ready. As of today, 5859 registered suppliers operating in 7948 Locations nationwide can redeem the Certificates and may also offer discounts on a range of their products and services.

A list of registered suppliers, products and discounts available is mailed to all GST registrants with their Certificate or is available on www.gststartup.gov.au

Certificates used to purchase equipment must be redeemed by 30 June and for advice and training by 31 October.

Typical equipment on which the Certificate is redeemable includes point-of-sale equipment, computer hardware and software and computer-based or manual accounting package.

Certificates can also be redeemed on financial or accounting advice, assistance or training offered by registered suppliers to help prepare small business and community organisations for their first Business Activity Statement.