BACKGROUND: The Smoking cessation guidelines for Australian general practice is based on published evidence, review of overseas guidelines, existing general practice programs, and a process of stakeholder consultation. It was distributed to Australian general practitioners in 2004. OBJECTIVE: This article describes the development and content of the guidelines. DISCUSSION: The guidelines provide an evidence based approach to smoking cessation advice in general practice using the 5 As framework (Ask, Assess, Advise, Assist, Arrange). The intervention approach (modelled on the Smokescreen Program) makes use of stage of change assessment and motivational interviewing. The guidelines are consistent with the Smoking, Nutrition and Physical activity (SNAP) framework for intervention on behavioural risk factors, and integrate GP advice with Quitline services.