New Phase in GST Small Business Help

A new phase of assistance for the small to medium business, community and education sectors begins today with the introduction of The New Tax System and GST said Chris Jordan Chairman of The New Tax System Advisory Board.

In addition to the continuation of all existing assistance programs, a range of new initiatives has been put in place to help deal with the first reporting period under The New Tax System.

A series of GST ‘safety net’ courses are being held through the GST Start-Up Assistance Office across Australia to assist businesses who have either not attended earlier courses or who require more information.

As well, ‘hands-on’ workshops will be held to assist businesses complete their first Business Activity Statement (BAS) and understand the Pay As You Go (PAYG) business tax system. Full, practical materials, including case studies and work sheets, are included in the workshops to help businesses to continue to run smoothly.

In addition to these new initiatives, Field Officers from the Australian Tax Office are still available for on-site visits to business operators to answer any questions that arise.

"There is a wide range of materials and services available to help business and community groups as well as the GST ASSIST hotline on 13 30 88 and the ATO’s Tax Reform hotline on 13 24 78," Chris Jordan said.

"Change is always difficult, but the preparation work done by the vast majority of small businesses to this point will stand them in good stead over the next few months.

"Early teething problems are inevitable given the extent of the reforms involved – but The New Tax System Advisory Board remains committed to helping businesses through the initial changeover period."

"Businesses are now moving into their first reporting period which means they should be ensuring that their record-keeping is ready for the GST and that they can keep track of sales," he said.

"The most important next step for business operators is to ensure they know how to lodge a Business Activity Statement (BAS) which is a single statement replacing numerous ATO forms.

Mr Jordan said he was confident any initial hitches would be quickly resolved.

"With the good will of small business we can move through the start-up period and start reaping the benefits of The New Tax System for all Australians," Mr Jordan said.

Media contact:
Anita Shooks, The New Tax System Advisory Board (02) 6216 2318 or 0407 406 765 or Cate Hines on 0418 962 200.