Google Australia offers free AdWords

in brief Search giant Google said today that it would offer a free search marketing campaign worth $75 to Australia's small and medium businesses with the stated aim of giving them a boost in tough economic conditions.

The company said the offer was open to those who had not yet used its AdWords search advertising service and was open until 30 June. Businesses can apply through Google's website.

"At Google, we want to help propel the Australian digital economy," the search giant's local head of Online Julian Persaud said in a statement. "The internet drives efficiencies and opens new markets. Encouraging more Australian businesses to connect with customers online is a major part of that vision."

The company said that in addition to its "stimulus offer" it would provide existing advertisers with two special master classes to help them improve the performance of their search marketing campaigns, with some of those attending also receiving a free campaign optimisation from a Google staff member.