A new package of free one-on-one assistance will help community, voluntary and cultural sector organisations prepare for their first quarterly Business Activity Statement (BAS), Chris Jordan, Chairman of The New Tax System Advisory Board announced today.

The initiative will offer organisations and individuals personalised briefings and assistance delivered by Community Sector Liaison Officers and other advisers.

The one-on-one help will be complemented by free BAS workshops running nationwide. Details of the nearly 1000 workshops in 220 locations nationwide can be checked at www.gststartup.gov.au or bookings can be made by phoning 13 30 88.

Individual assistance and information on workshops can be accessed by calling the Community Sector Helpline 13 30 88 (8am to 8pm EST weekdays). The helpline can also mail out free information kits or provide more detailed information about The New Tax System.

"I recommend that anyone involved with the community sector take advantage of the national workshop program," Chris Jordan said. "People can then decide if they need further individual assistance.

"Whether you are an administrator or volunteer in a charitable body, a musician, an artist or craft worker or are on a local sporting committee, the workshops and individual assistance will provide essential information on the GST and preparing your first quarterly BAS," Chris Jordan said.

Mr Jordan’s comments were supported by David Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Jobs Australia and National Treasurer of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS).

"The workshops and one-on-one bookkeeper assistance will be extremely useful to organisations in the sector and I urge them to take advantage of this initiative," Mr Thompson said.

A confidential discussion with a Community Sector Liaison Officer can be arranged through the helpline. The Liaison Officer can help guide the caller to an appropriate form of assistance for their needs, including access to a free one-on-one briefing from an accountant or bookkeeper.

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