A trial version (30 days) of ASReml can be obtained from VSN’s International web site. Licensed users can upgrade to newer versions from the specific update page.
The latest version of the software can be used as a standalone program or be called from the S+ or R statistical packages. There are separate PDF User Guides (manuals) for standalone and S+/R use, which can be downloaded from http://www.vsni.co.uk/resources/doc/.
You can also download the User Guide from this site (PDF, 1 MB).
I need to confirm what is the current way to subscribe to the ASREML list
There is an ASReml users’ email list. Once subscribed, you can email the list using asreml-l@agric.nsw.gov.au. Some of the old messages can be found at http://www.arm.li.csiro.au/lists/asreml/.
Since 2002, ASReml users also need to acquire a license to use it. The current costs for single licenses are £195 (academic), £425 (not for profit) and £558 (commercial). Check here for current exchange rates: http://www.x-rates.com/. There are discounts available for multiple copies and site licenses. The payment system has then moved from a ‘purchase a license, pay a small maintenance, no academic pricing’ one to a ‘rent the software (like SAS), higher cost for commercial licenses, reasonably priced academic licenses’ one.
All queries concerning purchase/licensing of ASReml need to go to sales@vsn-intl.com. You can also visit the official ASReml site for additional information.