Free workshops running locally will help community, voluntary and cultural sector organisations answer key questions about The New Tax System and the GST, said Chris Jordan, Chairman of The New Tax System Advisory Board.

The workshops can be booked by calling the Community Sector Helpline 13 30 88 (8am to 8pm EST weekdays). Alternatively, people can select the course most convenient by location and time for them by visiting www.gststartup.gov.au and clicking on ‘Free Workshops’.

Tax issues community sector organisations may not be familiar with include:

• Filling in the Business Activity Statement or Instalment Activity Statement;
• That organisations which do not have an ABN (Australian Business Number) and receive funding from Government, could have 48.5% of grant payments withheld as tax; and
• That organisations without an ABN could lose their tax exempt status or their endorsement for Deductible Gift Recipient status.

Over 75 presenters from the community sector will conduct nearly 1000 workshops at 220 locations nationwide.

"These GST workshops are specifically tailored for those working in the community, voluntary or cultural sector," Chris Jordan said.

"Whether you are an administrator or volunteer in a charitable body, a musician, are on a local sporting committee or are an art and craft worker, the workshops will answer the key taxation questions your need to know," Mr Jordan said.

Media contact: Stephen Gilfedder, GST Start-Up Assistance Office on
(02) 6263 4454 or 0411 254 592