You’ll find in this list what I believe are the best 7 payroll software packages for Australian business owners, with free options also included for those who are price-sensitive.
This is from my perspective as a person who owns more than 1 online business. Use this guide today to conduct deep insight into what is the right solution for you.
The best payroll software in Australia
I believe these are the top payroll options in the Australian marketplace…
- Xero Payroll
- MYOB Payroll
- KeyPay
- Reckon Payroll
- Quickbooks Payroll
- Lightning Payroll
- ePayDay Free Pay
Xero has taken the crown. It’s simply the best accounting software, and upon investigating its payroll potential for small business, has taken another award!
I also have a discount on Xero if you’d like to take up a trial. Totally up to you. I’m now running 4 accounts, across 4 online businesses. It’s surprisingly easier than it sounds, especially when I choose to create businesses that are mostly semi-passive. I also have an accountant who specializes in Xero only.
The others range in functionality, use, expand-ability and support. Xero is the most expensive of the bunch. You may have used or heard of the other options in the past. They’re all still very good platforms to consider.
A FREE solution to Australian payroll
ePayDay provides a free solution. You’re able to pay up to 2 employees for free, well…almost free! Their platform does need to be funded somehow, and the fees are extremely minimal if you’ve only got a few employees.
There is other software out there which claims to be free for Australian business owners. Unfortunately, again, there’s a catch. You may only be able to make a few payments before they ask for a monthly fee. All the best paid options come with a free trial.
Things to consider for Australian payroll software
I like to consider a range of factors when deciding upon any software to use. These include…
- Time in the marketplace
- Volume of existing business users
- Feedback from existing users and reviews
- The ease of use and ability to learn the new system
- The level and availability of support, and if it’s Australian-based
Note that I haven’t put costs in there. I believe this should be the last factor. Erasing headaches when using payroll software is my 1st priority. Payroll software shouldn’t cost more than $100 Australian dollars including GST per month. Well, at least for small businesses with less than 10 employees.
My recommendation
I wouldn’t choose free. I would chose reliability, longevity and trust. Xero comes out ahead on all 3 factors. Sure – they’re the most expensive. But they simply get the job done, so you can get back to the task of making money.
I hope this has been helpful to you in deciding the right Australian payroll solution as a business owner. Paid options always deliver the best value in my opinion.
You’re most welcome to drop in questions below if required. I’ll do my best to help you out!
