Is it time to move to Xero?
Xero is the cream of the crop of accounting software for small to medium sized businesses. Over the past years it has left its competitors in the dust with its constant innovation and user friendly interface.
With the increasing regulatory compliance from the ATO including, Single Touch Payroll and the upcoming Payday Super on 1 July 2026, Xero is the standout option in accounting software for most SME’s.
The ATO Super clearing house is closing as of 1 July 2026. Which means, if you are currently using it, you need to find an alternative option to pay employees super on time.
Xero offers automated superannuation, which is a feature that allows Australian businesses to pay employee super contributions directly from Xero Payroll without manually transferring funds. It’s designed to meet SuperStream compliance requirements and streamline the process of paying superannuation. It’s as easy as a click of a button.
Being on Xero is helpful because it gives your accountant real-time access to your file, allowing them to assist with queries or resolve processing issues quickly.
As a Xero partner, you can access Hall Chadwick QLD’s 30% discount on your subscription. If you are currently using Xero and not under a Hall Chadwick QLD subscription, reach out to your accountant to discuss transferring your subscription.
Key Xero Features
- Hubdoc – Automate Your Paperwork
Hubdoc, included with Xero, lets you snap photos of receipts and invoices or forward them via email. It extracts key data and publishes it straight into Xero, reducing manual entry and improving accuracy. Perfect for businesses looking to streamline expense management.
- Bank Rules – Speed Up Reconciliation
Tired of coding the same transactions every month? Xero’s Bank Rules feature allows you to set conditions for recurring transactions. Once set, Xero automatically applies the correct account codes during reconciliation—saving hours and reducing errors.
- Single Touch Payroll (STP) Compliance
Xero Payroll is fully compliant with STP Phase 2, meaning your employee tax and super details are automatically reported to the ATO each pay run. This ensures you meet legislative requirements without extra effort.
- Automated Superannuation Payments
With Xero, super contributions can be processed and paid directly through the platform. This automation reduces admin time and ensures timely compliance, especially important as Payday Super reforms take effect from 1 July 2026.
- Invoice Reminders – Get Paid Faster
Cash flow matters. Xero’s invoice reminder feature sends automatic follow-ups to clients based on your chosen schedule. No more chasing payments manually – just set and forget.
- Key Reports for Business Owners
Xero offers a suite of insightful reports:
- Profit & Loss for tracking performance.
- Cash Flow Statement for liquidity planning.
- Aged Receivables & Payables for managing debtor and creditor cycles.
- Budget Variance Reports to monitor progress against goals.
These reports help you make informed decisions and keep your business on track.
- Helpful Training Videos
Xero has a library of training videos to step you through any part of the program.
Handy links for more information about Xero or getting started
https://www.xero.com/au/pricing-plans/
https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/
https://learning.central.xero.com/student/path/4744-get-started-with-the-basics
Handy links for more information regarding pay day super
https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/super-for-employers/payday-super
https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/p2024-581438-payday-super-factsheet.pdf
If you think the new year is time for you to you move software, get in touch with your accountant who can assist you. While it may seem daunting, we find clients that have made the move don’t look back.
