Quick Overview
- 1#1: Employment Hero - All-in-one HR, payroll, and employee management platform tailored for Australian businesses with local compliance.
- 2#2: Elmo Software - Comprehensive HRIS offering payroll, performance management, and learning modules compliant with Australian regulations.
- 3#3: KeyPay - Cloud-based payroll and HR software with rostering, timesheets, and STP compliance for Australian employers.
- 4#4: MYOB - Integrated business management suite with robust Australian payroll and HR functionalities for SMBs.
- 5#5: Xero - Cloud accounting software featuring Australian payroll, leave management, and employee portal integration.
- 6#6: Deputy - Workforce management tool with scheduling, time tracking, and HR features optimized for Australian industries like retail and hospitality.
- 7#7: ADP - Global HR platform with Australian payroll, compliance, and talent management for mid-to-large enterprises.
- 8#8: Micropay - Australian payroll software with HR modules, superannuation, and reporting for compliant wage processing.
- 9#9: WageEasy - Simple payroll and HR solution with STP Phase 2 support and employee self-service for small Australian businesses.
- 10#10: PageUp - Talent acquisition and HR platform with recruitment, onboarding, and performance tools for Australian organizations.
We ranked these tools by prioritizing alignment with Australian regulatory requirements (including STP and superannuation), depth of core features, user experience, and value, ensuring they deliver actionable efficiency across industries.
Comparison Table
Navigating Australian HR software? This comparison table examines tools like Employment Hero, Elmo Software, KeyPay, MYOB, and Xero, breaking down their key features and practical use cases. Readers will gain insights to compare options, making informed choices tailored to their business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Employment Hero All-in-one HR, payroll, and employee management platform tailored for Australian businesses with local compliance. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Elmo Software Comprehensive HRIS offering payroll, performance management, and learning modules compliant with Australian regulations. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | KeyPay Cloud-based payroll and HR software with rostering, timesheets, and STP compliance for Australian employers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | MYOB Integrated business management suite with robust Australian payroll and HR functionalities for SMBs. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Xero Cloud accounting software featuring Australian payroll, leave management, and employee portal integration. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Deputy Workforce management tool with scheduling, time tracking, and HR features optimized for Australian industries like retail and hospitality. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | ADP Global HR platform with Australian payroll, compliance, and talent management for mid-to-large enterprises. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Micropay Australian payroll software with HR modules, superannuation, and reporting for compliant wage processing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | WageEasy Simple payroll and HR solution with STP Phase 2 support and employee self-service for small Australian businesses. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | PageUp Talent acquisition and HR platform with recruitment, onboarding, and performance tools for Australian organizations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
All-in-one HR, payroll, and employee management platform tailored for Australian businesses with local compliance.
Comprehensive HRIS offering payroll, performance management, and learning modules compliant with Australian regulations.
Cloud-based payroll and HR software with rostering, timesheets, and STP compliance for Australian employers.
Integrated business management suite with robust Australian payroll and HR functionalities for SMBs.
Cloud accounting software featuring Australian payroll, leave management, and employee portal integration.
Workforce management tool with scheduling, time tracking, and HR features optimized for Australian industries like retail and hospitality.
Global HR platform with Australian payroll, compliance, and talent management for mid-to-large enterprises.
Australian payroll software with HR modules, superannuation, and reporting for compliant wage processing.
Simple payroll and HR solution with STP Phase 2 support and employee self-service for small Australian businesses.
Talent acquisition and HR platform with recruitment, onboarding, and performance tools for Australian organizations.
Employment Hero
enterpriseAll-in-one HR, payroll, and employee management platform tailored for Australian businesses with local compliance.
ATO Single Touch Payroll (STP) integration with real-time superannuation and tax compliance automation
Employment Hero is a comprehensive all-in-one HR platform tailored for Australian businesses, offering payroll processing fully compliant with ATO Single Touch Payroll (STP) and superannuation requirements. It streamlines employee lifecycle management, including onboarding, performance reviews, leave tracking, and benefits administration through an intuitive cloud-based interface. The software also provides employee self-service portals and robust reporting to enhance HR efficiency and compliance.
Pros
- Seamless ATO-compliant payroll and superannuation handling
- All-in-one HR suite covering onboarding to offboarding
- Strong mobile app and employee self-service features
- Extensive integrations with accounting and recruitment tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small businesses
- Advanced customizations may require professional services
- Occasional delays in customer support response times
Best For
Australian SMEs and mid-sized companies seeking an integrated, compliance-focused HR and payroll solution.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$7 per employee/month for core HR + payroll; scales with add-ons and employee count.
Elmo Software
enterpriseComprehensive HRIS offering payroll, performance management, and learning modules compliant with Australian regulations.
Advanced integrated Learning Management System (Elmo Academy) with personalized learning paths and compliance training tracking
Elmo Software is a leading Australian cloud-based HR and payroll platform tailored for local businesses, offering comprehensive tools for payroll compliance, employee management, performance tracking, and talent development. It supports end-to-end HR processes including onboarding, leave management, recruitment, learning management, and advanced reporting with ATO Single Touch Payroll (STP) integration. Designed for scalability, it allows organizations to select modules that fit their needs while ensuring adherence to Australian regulations.
Pros
- Robust Australian payroll compliance with STP Phase 2 and superannuation automation
- Integrated HR suite covering talent, learning, and performance management
- Strong analytics and customizable reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Pricing can be higher for smaller businesses due to modular structure
- Initial setup and customization may require professional services
- Mobile app functionality lags behind desktop experience for some features
Best For
Mid-sized to large Australian enterprises needing a scalable, compliant all-in-one HR and payroll solution.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting from approximately $5-10 per employee per month, depending on selected modules and company size.
KeyPay
specializedCloud-based payroll and HR software with rostering, timesheets, and STP compliance for Australian employers.
Automated Award Interpreter that calculates compliant pay rates for over 120 modern awards
KeyPay is a cloud-based payroll and HR platform tailored for Australian businesses, excelling in compliance with local regulations like Single Touch Payroll (STP), Superannuation, and modern awards. It offers end-to-end features including automated payroll processing, intelligent rostering, timesheets, leave management, and employee self-service portals. With strong integrations to accounting tools like Xero and MYOB, it streamlines workforce management for small to medium enterprises.
Pros
- Superior Australian compliance with STP Phase 2, PAYG, and Superannuation
- Powerful rostering and timesheet tools with mobile app support
- Seamless integrations with Xero, MYOB, and other AU-specific tools
Cons
- Pricing scales with employee count, less ideal for very small teams
- Advanced HR analytics and reporting require add-ons
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Australian SMEs with shift-based workforces needing robust payroll compliance and rostering.
Pricing
Starts at $4 per payslip or $6+ per active employee/month for core payroll; HR modules and enterprise plans custom-priced.
MYOB
enterpriseIntegrated business management suite with robust Australian payroll and HR functionalities for SMBs.
Automated Single Touch Payroll (STP) and superannuation lodgements directly to the ATO
MYOB is a leading Australian business software provider offering integrated HR and payroll solutions through products like MYOB Workforce and Advanced Payroll. It excels in compliant payroll processing, including Single Touch Payroll (STP), superannuation management, leave tracking, and employee self-service portals tailored to Australian regulations. The platform also supports rostering, timesheets, and basic HR functions like onboarding and performance reviews, making it a solid all-in-one option for SMEs.
Pros
- Seamless compliance with Australian STP, superannuation, and tax requirements
- Strong integration with MYOB accounting software for unified business management
- Reliable support and established presence in the Australian market
Cons
- User interface can feel dated and less intuitive compared to modern HR platforms
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced HR features and larger teams
- Limited depth in advanced HR analytics and talent management tools
Best For
Australian small to medium businesses seeking integrated payroll, HR basics, and accounting in one compliant platform.
Pricing
Payroll starts at ~$5 per pay run + $4-6 per employee/month; full HR bundles from $10+/user/month, with custom enterprise pricing.
Xero
enterpriseCloud accounting software featuring Australian payroll, leave management, and employee portal integration.
Automated STP-compliant payroll reporting directly to the ATO, simplifying Australian tax and super obligations.
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with integrated payroll and basic HR functionalities tailored for Australian businesses, focusing on compliance with ATO requirements like Single Touch Payroll (STP) and superannuation. It handles employee payments, leave management, timesheets, and basic onboarding through its payroll module. While not a full-fledged HRIS, it provides essential HR tools that integrate seamlessly with its accounting features for small to medium enterprises.
Pros
- Strong Australian payroll compliance including STP Phase 2 and superannuation automation
- Seamless integration with accounting for unified financial and HR data
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support for on-the-go access
Cons
- Lacks advanced HR features like performance reviews, recruiting, or employee engagement tools
- Not a dedicated HRIS, requiring third-party integrations for comprehensive HR needs
- Payroll costs add up with per-pay-run fees for larger teams
Best For
Small to medium Australian businesses needing reliable payroll and basic HR integrated with accounting software.
Pricing
Base plans start at AU$32/month (Early stage), with Payroll Plus add-on from AU$10/month + AU$1-6 per pay run depending on employee count.
Deputy
specializedWorkforce management tool with scheduling, time tracking, and HR features optimized for Australian industries like retail and hospitality.
Award Interpreter, which automatically applies Australian modern awards to schedules for accurate penalty rates, overtime, and compliance.
Deputy is a cloud-based workforce management platform originating from Australia, specializing in employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, and team communication for shift-based industries like retail, hospitality, and healthcare. It ensures compliance with Australian labour laws, awards, and Fair Work regulations through automated rostering and overtime calculations. While it offers basic leave management and integrates with payroll systems like KeyPay and MYOB, it is not a full-suite HRIS lacking advanced recruitment, performance, or onboarding modules.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with real-time updates and mobile app access
- Strong compliance with Australian awards, Fair Work, and penalty rate calculations
- Excellent communication tools including announcements, chat, and shift swaps
Cons
- Limited depth in core HR functions like performance management or recruitment
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent, especially for non-enterprise users
- Pricing can become expensive for large teams due to per-active-user billing
Best For
Australian shift-based businesses in hospitality, retail, or healthcare needing efficient rostering and time tracking with local compliance.
Pricing
Starts at AU$3.50 per active user per month for Essentials plan; scales to Enterprise with custom quotes including advanced features like fatigue management.
ADP
enterpriseGlobal HR platform with Australian payroll, compliance, and talent management for mid-to-large enterprises.
Seamless STP-compliant payroll with real-time ATO reporting and automated superannuation guarantees.
ADP is a global leader in HR and payroll software with a strong Australian presence, offering comprehensive solutions for payroll processing, compliance with local regulations like Single Touch Payroll (STP) and superannuation, and integrated HR functions including talent management and employee self-service. It caters to businesses of all sizes but excels in enterprise environments with scalable cloud-based platforms. Australian users benefit from localized features ensuring adherence to Fair Work Act standards and ATO requirements.
Pros
- Excellent Australian payroll compliance including STP Phase 2 and superannuation automation
- Scalable for enterprises with global operations
- Robust reporting and analytics for HR insights
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large businesses
- Interface can feel dated and less intuitive than newer competitors
- Implementation time can be lengthy for complex setups
Best For
Mid-to-large Australian enterprises needing robust, compliant payroll and HR integration with global scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at AUD 15-30 per employee/month plus setup fees; quotes required.
Micropay
specializedAustralian payroll software with HR modules, superannuation, and reporting for compliant wage processing.
Fully automated STP Phase 2 reporting with direct ATO lodgement for effortless tax compliance.
Micropay is a cloud-based Australian payroll and HR software solution tailored for local businesses, offering comprehensive payroll processing, superannuation management, and compliance with ATO requirements like Single Touch Payroll (STP). It includes employee self-service portals, leave tracking, and rostering tools, with integrations for accounting software such as Xero and MYOB. Primarily focused on payroll accuracy and regulatory adherence, it suits SMEs navigating complex Australian employment laws.
Pros
- Strong compliance with Australian regulations including STP Phase 2 and superannuation guarantees
- Reliable payroll processing with automated tax calculations and reporting
- Local Australian support team with deep knowledge of Fair Work and ATO rules
Cons
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced HR features like performance management or recruitment tools
- Pricing can add up for businesses with variable pay runs
Best For
Small to medium Australian businesses prioritizing accurate payroll compliance and superannuation over extensive HR functionalities.
Pricing
Pay-per-run model starting at $2.95 per employee per pay period, plus monthly base fees from $49; custom enterprise pricing available.
WageEasy
specializedSimple payroll and HR solution with STP Phase 2 support and employee self-service for small Australian businesses.
Automatic flow of rostered shifts into timesheets and payroll for error-free wage processing
WageEasy is a cloud-based Australian payroll and workforce management software tailored for small to medium businesses, specializing in compliant payroll processing, timesheet tracking, rostering, and leave management. It ensures full adherence to Australian regulations including Single Touch Payroll (STP) Phase 2 and accurate superannuation calculations. The platform streamlines wage compliance and basic HR tasks without the complexity of full-suite solutions.
Pros
- Strong Australian compliance with STP Phase 2 and superannuation
- Seamless integration of rostering, timesheets, and payroll
- Affordable pricing suitable for SMEs
Cons
- Limited advanced HR features like recruitment or performance management
- Basic reporting and analytics capabilities
- Mobile app lacks some advanced functionalities
Best For
Small to medium Australian businesses focused on straightforward payroll compliance and basic rostering without needing comprehensive HR tools.
Pricing
Pay-run based pricing starting from $4.50 per pay run plus $1 per active employee, with custom quotes for larger teams.
PageUp
enterpriseTalent acquisition and HR platform with recruitment, onboarding, and performance tools for Australian organizations.
Science of Attraction recruitment marketing suite with AI-optimized job advertising and candidate nurturing
PageUp is an Australian-born HR software platform specializing in talent acquisition, onboarding, performance management, learning, and succession planning. It provides an integrated suite for managing the full talent lifecycle, with strong emphasis on recruitment marketing, AI-driven candidate matching, and compliance with Australian employment laws. Designed primarily for mid-to-large enterprises, it offers scalable solutions with global capabilities while maintaining local market expertise.
Pros
- Robust AI-powered recruitment tools like candidate matching and predictive analytics
- Deep integration with Australian payroll systems (e.g., MYOB, KeyPay) and local compliance features
- Comprehensive end-to-end talent management covering acquisition to development
Cons
- High cost structure suited mainly for enterprises, less ideal for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for advanced modules and customization
- Limited transparency on pricing without a sales consultation
Best For
Mid-to-large Australian enterprises seeking a scalable, recruitment-focused HR platform with strong local compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at AUD $50-100+ per user/month for core modules, with annual contracts and add-ons for full suite.
Conclusion
The reviewed HR software solutions vary in focus but all deliver value, from full integration to specific payroll or talent management needs, making them tailored for Australian businesses. Leading the pack is Employment Hero, celebrated for its all-in-one approach and strict local compliance, while Elmo Software and KeyPay follow closely—excellent choices for those prioritizing comprehensive HRIS features or cloud-based payroll and STP capabilities, respectively. These top three tools stand out as reliable options, each addressing distinct operational priorities.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your HR workflow—start with Employment Hero today to unlock a seamless, compliant, and integrated solution that simplifies management and supports your business growth.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison