Reading Time: 7 Minutes
Published : December 29, 2023
Last Updated: June 6, 2024
Key Takeaways:
- Automated payroll solutions not only ensure accurate and timely salary calculations but also eliminate the susceptibility to manual errors.
- Recognizing that each business has distinct requirements, it’s essential to choose payroll software that aligns with specific needs.
- We have detailed descriptions of featured payroll software, like ELMO, Xero, MYOB, and others, that offer insights into their features, pros, cons, and pricing to help you make informed decisions.
Calculating employees’ salaries and paying them on time is one of the essential business processes. Such calculations are prone to human-made error if done manually.
Looking for Payroll Software Software? Check out SoftwareSuggest’s list of the best Payroll Software Software solutions.
The best solution is to automate the entire payroll process using payroll software. The market for HR payroll software is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% from its estimated $25.30 billion in 2022 to $55.69 billion in 2031.
Pro-tip
When selecting payroll software from the 11 best options in Australia for 2024, prioritize features that align with your business needs. Look beyond the price and consider factors like user interface, customer support, and compliance with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) regulations. Testimonials and reviews can offer valuable insights into the software's performance.
Every business has its own unique needs. That’s why you should choose the one that fits your requirements. To help you narrow down the list, we have listed the 11 best payroll software in Australia that you can consider using.
How We Select & List Softwares?
Our selection of these Payroll Software in Australia is based on thorough research and analysis. We have listed these softwares based on usability and satisfaction score that include features, ease of use, customer support, ratings, and number of reviews from SoftwareSuggest. Our goal is to help businesses select the right softwares that can help them optimize their business processes.
11 Payroll Software in Australia
Let’s take a look at the best 11 payroll software in Australia.
Software Name | Free Trail Period | Pricing |
---|---|---|
ELMO | Check the official website | Connect with the vendor |
Xero | 30 days | Growing: $21 per month |
MYOB | 30 days | MYOB Business Pro: $27.50/per month |
Payroll Metrics | Check the official website | Connect with the vendor |
QuickBooks Online | 30 days | Essentials: $30 per month |
Smart Payroll | 30 days | Connect with the vendor |
KeyPay | 30 days | Connect with the vendor |
Sage | Check the official website | Premium Accounting: $970/one year/one user |
Clockon | Check the official website | Standard: $2.10 per employee/ per month |
ADP | Check the official website | Connect with the vendor |
Affinity | Check the official website | Connect with the vendor |
1. ELMO
ELMO offers integrated payroll and HR software to help you manage all your employee-related tasks. This integrated platform aims to increase efficiency and reduce operations costs.
It allows the onboarding process to flow seamlessly into payroll. Thus, it eliminates the need for additional data entry or transfer. Besides, the system ensures that you effectively organize your timesheets and pay your employees on time.
Features
- Candidate tracking
- Bonus management
- Data blending
- Job management
- Performance metrics
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Offers a secure and compliant-ready payroll.
- Allows you to generate in-depth reports to help you make smart decisions.
- Very easy to install and use.
Cons
- The software has technical glitches.
- It is difficult to filter forms.
2. Xero
Xero offers an integrated payroll system with its accounting software. However, it comes with a full-fledged functionality of a payroll solution. It automatically keeps updating the amount pending to be paid, which you can view from your accounting solution.
Xero payroll provides tools to track the number of hours worked by each individual and keep records of the number of leaves taken. Besides, it can be accessed from any device – desktops, mobile phones, and tablets. It syncs the information in real time.
Features
- 401 (k) tracking
- Case management
- Financial reporting
- Due date tracking
- Purchase order management
- Warehouse management
Pricing
- Early: $7.50 per month
- Growing: $21 per month
- Established: $39 per month
Pros
- Has an intuitive and clean interface for ease of use.
- Makes it easy for employees to apply for leave or view their payslips.
- The system is SuperStream compliant.
Cons
- The design is a little outdated.
- Migrating from other accounting software is time-consuming.
3. MYOB
MYOB is one of the best payroll systems that is best suited for small to medium-sized companies. It is designed locally to serve the local businesses with the ATO compliant.
They offer a single-touch payroll that makes the entire process of paying staff super quick for small businesses. Using the system, you can easily generate detailed employee benefits reports, the payments made, time tracking and attendance records, and much more.
Features
- Document management
- Progress reports
- Accounting integration
- Billing rate management
- Credit card processing
Pricing
- MYOB Business Lite: $15/per month
- MYOB Business Pro: $27.50/per month
- MYOB Business AccountRight Plus: $68/per month
- MYOB Business AccountRight Premier: $85/per month
Pros
- Has an active and reliable support team, available 7 days a week.
- Offers a rich and easy-to-use interface.
- Offers high security to protect your business data.
Cons
- The UI needs to be developed.
- Difficult to create invoices.
4. Payroll Metrics
Payroll Metrics offers an enterprise-level HR and payroll solution that comes integrated with workforce management software. It is an all-in-one solution that enables you to automate your business processes and achieve complete efficiency.
This modern, reliable payroll software in Australia empowers employees and managers with self-service. Employees can have access to view their payslips, request leaves, and more.
In fact, it can even create organization charts and workflow hierarchies.
Features
- Advanced analytics
- Workforce management
- Single touch payroll
- Advanced reporting
- Centralized management
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Compatible with all devices with a web browser.
- Generates smart reports for detailed insights.
- Can import employee updates from your HRIS software.
Cons
- Technical glitches at times.
- The customer care needs improvement.
5. QuickBooks Online
QuickBooks Online is a sophisticated platform that offers an integrated payroll system within its accounting software.
The system automates the entire process of accurately calculating the payroll and processing the payment on time. It stays compliant with all the requirements of ATO. Besides, it even offers a single-touch payroll solution.
It is quite simple to use. Login to QuickBooks online, enter your business and employee details and add pay run information. That’s it.
Features
- Payment inventory
- Insights and reports
- Online banking
- Mileage tracking
- Account reconciliation
Pricing
- Simple Start: $15 per month
- Essentials: $30 per month
- Plus: $45 per month
- Advanced: $100 per month
Pros
- Enables employees to update their details.
- Offers excellent customer support for any technical issues.
- The system is highly scalable and secure.
Cons
- Cannot customize invoice template.
- No redeeming values to QBO.
You May Also Read: Automated Payroll vs. Manual Payroll System
6. Smart Payroll
Smart Payroll is a cloud-based payroll system that is quite popular in Australia. They bring their 10 years of payroll expertise into this solution.
The system keeps you updated about the correct tax slabs so that no mistake is made. It allows you to automate the process of directly depositing payments into the employee’s account.
Besides, the system is fully backed up, so you don’t have to stay worried about losing the data.
Features
- Performance management
- Payroll processing
- Compliance management
- Workflow administration
- Competency tracking
- Centralized monitoring
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Generates detailed reports as per your business needs.
- Enables employee self-service through its MyPay app.
- Offers full support to all its customers.
Cons
- Technical glitches at times.
- The technical support is not up to the mark.
7. KeyPay
KeyPay is an award-winning payroll software that offers a robust set of functionalities. This cloud-based solution automates payroll processes, saving you extra time to focus on more important tasks.
With its self-service app WorkZone, both employers and employees can manage their information. Using the app or an online portal, they can request leave, update their timesheets, track their reimbursem*nt status, and more.
Most importantly, it streamlines the full service payroll process and provides real-time insights into the operating cost of your business.
Features
- Compensation management
- Time tracking
- Reporting and statistics
- Tax compliance
- Vacation/leave tracking
- Wage garnishment
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Seamlessly integrates with third-party applications
- Suitable for all sizes of businesses
- Has a rich and intuitive dashboard for easy access
Cons
- The rostering system needs improvement.
- The data extracts and reporting options need modifications.
8. Sage
Sage is a powerful payroll software that all sizes of businesses can use. It streamlines and automates the accounting and payroll plans, including payslips and tax calculations.
The system is regularly updated to ensure that the businesses stay compliant with any changes in the cloud payroll reports and pension legislation. This cloud-based solution aims to minimize payroll administration by offering flexible reporting options.
Features
- Cash flow management
- Approval process control
- Dunning management
- Fraud detection
- PO reconciliation
- Vendor management
Pricing
- Pro Accounting: $595/one year/one user
- Premium Accounting: $970/one year/one user
- Quantum Accounting: $1610/one year/one user
- Payroll bundles: custom pricing
Pros
- is a safe, secure, and intuitive payroll solution.
- Offers active support for immediate assistance.
- Helps you stay single-touch payroll (STP) compliant.
Cons
- Modifying or changing the invoice is a hassle.
- Issues in linking business bank accounts to the software.
9. Clockon
Clockon is one of the most popular attendance and payroll plans software in Australia. It aims to streamline and automate the process of tracking the number of hours worked and accurately calculating payrolls.
ATO endorses it and stays compliant with single-touch payroll. It can generate up to 250 different types of reports to give you a detailed insight into your business management. It also offers dedicated mobile apps to enable employees to view their payslips, update timesheets, and personal details, and more.
Features
- Automated scheduling
- Shift swapping
- Attendance management
- Time tracking
- Employee lifecycle management
- Payroll management
Pricing
- Starter: $0 per employee/ per month
- Standard: $2.10 per employee/ per month
- Outsourced: $6.50 per payslip
Pros
- Easily integrates with third-party applications.
- Can generate and share payslips via email as well as mobile.
- Offers good customer support for any kind of assistance.
Cons
- The roster making needs improvement.
- The reporting feature needs changes and improvements.
10. ADP
ADP is your one-stop solution to all your payroll needs. It offers you a secure, cloud-based platform to allow you to access your information from anywhere, anytime. It gives you full visibility into your workforce information.
In fact, it allows employers and employees self-service to request/approve leaves, view payslips, and more. Furthermore, this small business accounting software can seamlessly integrate with HR systems and ERPs for smooth operations.
Features
- Contractor management
- Employee scheduling
- Recruitment management
- Web-based deployment
- Real-time reporting
- Review cycle tracking
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Can generate over 100 standard reports for detailed insights.
- Stays compliant with ATO and STP regulations.
- It is quite easy to use with its rich interface.
Cons
- The registration is a little complicated.
- The customer services needs upgradation.
11. Affinity
Affinitiy is another best payroll system that automates and removes errors from payroll processing. It is a cost-effective solution that is quite simple to use and reduces extra effort.
It offers robust reporting tools that provide you with great insights to help you make smart and informed business decisions. Some of its other functionalities include time management, self-service and workflow, remuneration packaging, leave management, and more.
Features
- Attendance management
- Budgeting/forecasting
- Performance metrics
- Payroll outsourcing
- Template management
Pricing
- Please connect with the vendor for pricing.
Pros
- Automated data sensitivity to protect it from new starters and terminations.
- Gives you immediate visibility over resource allocation.
- Integrates with third-party systems.
Cons
- There are technical glitches at times.
- The customer support needs improvement.
How Can Payroll Solutions Help Your Business?
Australian businesses need payroll software solutions to ensure compliance with the Seamless Taxation Process (STP). Timely and precise payments, automated payslip production, and benefits management streamline the process of payroll administration. Modern digital solutions are effective and affordable as they do away with paperwork.
An automated solution ensures compliance with the Australian Tax Office (ATO), allowing efficient operations and freeing up time for key business issues. Payroll solutions are the solution to a hassle-free, legal, and efficient payroll administration system that lets companies prosper and concentrate on their main business operations.
You May Also Read: What Is Global Payroll? Benefits, Challenges, and Solutions
Conclusion
So that was the end of our list. Make a list of the features that are important while choosing payroll software, and be sure to conduct thorough research before you make any final decisions on accurate and compliant payroll software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which payroll software is best in Australia?
One of the top payroll software choices in Australia is Xero. With user-friendly features, automated payroll processing, and compliance support, it streamlines payroll management for businesses of all sizes.
Which software is used for payroll in Australia?
Some commonly used payroll software in Australia includes MYOB, Xero, and Sage. These platforms help businesses manage payroll tasks, comply with tax regulations, and streamline financial processes.
How do I run payroll in Australia?
To run payroll in Australia, obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) and do the following:
- Select a payroll platform.
- Develop a payroll strategy.
- Gather staff details.
- Establish direct deposit.
- Implement a time-tracking system.
- Gather employee timesheets.
- Approve and submit payroll.
- Maintain and refresh payroll records.
How does payroll software handle tax calculations in Australia?
Payroll software in Australia typically automates tax calculations by considering employee income, deductions, and relevant tax rates. It ensures accurate calculation and facilitates compliance with Australian taxation regulations.
Can payroll software handle employee leave and entitlements?
Yes, payroll software typically includes features to manage employee leave and entitlements, automating tracking and calculation processes to ensure accurate and efficient management of time-off benefits.
Priya Naha
Priya is a seasoned writer with expertise in the SaaS industry. With over five years of experience in the field, she deeply understands the requirement of this specific industry, its techniques, and tools. Her articles, whitepapers, and blog posts are known for their clarity, practicality, and actionable insights. Priya also possesses in-depth knowledge of SEO and content marketing, which enables her to develop effective strategies to increase website traffic and improve brand visibility.