the launch of a new system called Xero' that promises to take the boredom out of bookkeeping.

Telstra Business Group Managing Director Deena Shiff said Xero was now available for a free 30 day trial on the T-Suite® Software-as-a-Service portal.

"The big benefit of Xero is that it's designed specifically for small business providing instant access to bank transactions, invoicing reports and GST data," Ms Shiff said.

"Because it's hosted online and accessed through T-Suite®, your valuable accounting records are secured safely off your business premises and you can access them anytime from anywhere with an Internet or mobile data connection.

"Bank statements are imported and reconciled automatically -one of many features that helps eliminate time consuming manual processing. Commonwealth, ANZ and NAB are already linked and it will be expanded to include others.

"Xero was developed in New Zealand and is already being used by small businesses in 25 countries. Its growing band of fans say the best thing about it is that it's surprisingly easy and also quite fun to use - taking some of drudgery out of bookkeeping."

Ms Shiff said Telstra was delighted to bring Xero to Australia as one of the star programs in the expanding T-Suite software menu line-up, offering the best local software alongside applications from well-known global brands.

"Xero's unique online accounting system will join a growing stable of world leading applications small businesses can access from the T-Suite service covering online security, collaboration workforce management and business administration," Ms Shiff said.

In May, the Australian founder and former CEO of MYOB, Craig Winkler, became a cornerstone shareholder in Xero and is a director on the Xero board.

"This is an exciting milestone for Xero, the world's easiest-to-use accounting system for small business," Xero CEO Rod Drury said.

"Being part of Telstra T-Suite will allow us to make life easier for thousands of Australian small businesses."

Xero is available on T-Suite® for $54.95 per month. Customers can try Xero for free for 30 days by visiting http://bit.ly/2mT7Xa.

About Xero

Since listing on the NZX in June 2007, Xero now has customers in more than 25 countries. Xero has offices and a network of partners in New Zealand, Australia and the UK.

Information Source:    Telstra