Why Australian Businesses Are Choosing to Convert from MYOB to Xero


In today’s fast-paced digital economy, the choice of accounting software can define how efficiently a business operates. For many Australian organisations, converting from MYOB to Xero has become more than a technical decision it’s a strategic move to enhance flexibility, automate processes, and gain real-time financial visibility.

Digital accounting is evolving rapidly. Businesses that embrace modern, cloud-based platforms like Xero are not just simplifying workflows they’re equipping themselves to make data-driven decisions with confidence. But what drives this shift, and how can organisations ensure a smooth migration?

At NCS Australia, we’ve guided numerous clients through this transition. Here’s what we’ve learned about why businesses are moving from MYOB to Xero, the advantages of doing so, and the practical steps to make the process seamless.

MYOB vs Xero: Understanding the Difference

MYOB has long been trusted in Australia for its comprehensive financial tools and offline functionality, making it suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. However, Xero, a cloud-based platform from New Zealand, has become increasingly popular due to its intuitive interface, automation features, and real-time reporting capabilities.

When evaluating MYOB vs Xero, businesses often focus on:

  • Collaboration & Accessibility: Xero’s cloud-first design allows teams to work simultaneously from anywhere, whereas MYOB often relies on desktop installations.

  • Automation & Efficiency: Xero reduces manual bookkeeping through automated bank feeds, invoicing, and reconciliations.

  • Reporting & Insights: Real-time dashboards and KPI tracking in Xero provide actionable insights for better decision-making.

Before switching, businesses should consider several key factors to ensure the migration supports growth, accuracy, and compliance.

Key Considerations for Australian Businesses

Migrating accounting systems isn’t just about moving data, it’s a strategic investment. Here are the critical areas to evaluate before converting from MYOB to Xero:

  • Cost Analysis: Compare subscription plans, add-ons, and setup fees. Xero’s 2025 plans for small businesses range from AUD $33 to $85 per month, often including features that MYOB charges extra for. Consider whether automation and efficiency gains justify the investment.

  • Features & Functionality: Identify which platform aligns with your operational priorities. Xero excels in cloud collaboration, automation, and real-time reporting, while MYOB offers offline reliability and familiar workflows.

  • Third-Party Integrations: Modern businesses require interconnected systems. With over 1,000 app integrations, Xero easily connects to CRMs, inventory systems, and payment platforms.

  • User Experience & Training: An intuitive interface reduces errors and accelerates adoption. Ensure your team understands Xero’s dashboards, reporting tools, and automated processes.

  • Compliance & Accuracy: Confirm that financial data post-migration aligns with Australian tax and accounting regulations.

  • User Experience: Evaluate the intuitiveness of each platform. An efficient, well-designed interface streamlines bookkeeping, minimises errors, and accelerates workflow. Xero’s cloud-native design is widely recognised for its simplicity and ease of use, making it particularly well-suited for digital-first teams.

By carefully evaluating these key factors, your organisation can make a well-informed decision that goes beyond a simple migration, driving a lasting transformation in financial management and supporting sustainable business growth.

Six Steps to a Smooth Migration from MYOB to Xero

Migrating from MYOB to Xero can feel daunting, but with planning and the right approach, it’s achievable without disrupting day-to-day operations.

1. Plan Ahead
Identify all data to migrate, contacts, invoices, payroll, and historical transactions. Set a clear timeline and anticipate challenges early.

2. Choose the Right Migration Tool
Tools like Jet Convert MYOB to Xero, officially recommended by Xero, streamline data transfer. Alternatively, outsourcing to experienced accounting providers can ensure accuracy and security.

3. Export Data from MYOB
Export charts of accounts, invoices, bills, payroll, and transaction history. Proper organisation ensures completeness and reduces the risk of errors during import.

4. Import Data into Xero
Upload your data via CSV or automation tools. Ensuring financials align with reporting dates establishes a clean starting point.

5. Configure Xero Settings
Set up chart of accounts, tax rates, payment terms, user permissions, and invoice templates. Customisation helps leverage Xero’s automation capabilities effectively.

6. Test & Reconcile
Compare trial balances and run both systems in parallel briefly to catch discrepancies early. Reconciliation ensures accurate financial records before fully switching over.

According to Xero’s 2024 Small Business Insights, businesses that digitise and automate accounting save up to 10 hours per week on manual bookkeeping, time that can be reinvested into strategic growth.

Tips for a Successful Transition

Even with the right tools, careful preparation and a thoughtful approach make a difference:

  • Gather All Essential Data: Collect employee and customer records, invoices, bank statements, and historical transactions beforehand.

  • Familiarise Your Team with Xero: Explore dashboards, reporting tools, and automation features to accelerate adoption.

  • Start Small: Migrate a limited data set first to test the process and identify errors.

  • Exercise Patience: Learning a new system takes time. Provide training and support to ensure confidence across your team.

By applying these strategies, businesses can minimise errors and fully leverage Xero’s cloud-based capabilities.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Switch

Migrating from MYOB to Xero is more than a data transfer it is a strategic opportunity for Australian businesses to enhance operational efficiency, automate workflows, and gain real-time financial insight. Leveraging Xero’s cloud-based platform allows organisations to track key performance indicators, monitor cash flow, and make data-driven decisions with confidence.

With careful planning, the right migration tools such as Jet Convert MYOB to Xero, and a structured approach, businesses can ensure a smooth and accurate transition. Compared to MYOB, Xero’s intuitive interface, comprehensive integrations, and cloud accessibility make it an ideal choice for organisations seeking scalability, streamlined accounting processes, and improved financial oversight.

Understanding this MYOB vs Xero comparison empowers businesses like NCS Australia to make informed decisions, embrace modern digital accounting solutions, and unlock actionable financial insights for sustainable growth.


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