This isn't much of a suggestion of something to add, but rather something to look into fixing or making sure it's seen.
I often see new users who have just got to there advanced class who have no idea that they are given new equipment inside that backpack you are given; to be honest I had the same problem in when I first started in Beta. For example I'll be teamed up with someone on The Black Talon and notice that a Sniper hasn't got a Sniper Rifle equipped, when I ask him why, he tells me he hasn't got one. So I explain the backpack of equipment he should have been given, and sure-enough he finds his Sniper Rifle.
I know it's not a big suggestion but if you look at the item in the Inventory, it can easily be mistaken for trash items you pick up, one has the same item image.
So in summary: I think characters who have just got their advanced class should be made aware of this backpack in their inventory, I was thinking maybe some Fly-Text or make it easier to notice in the inventory. It just stops new users from thinking they have to spend credits on something they already have in their inventory.
Thanks.