Types of payroll services
Australian businesses have several options for managing payroll, from handling it entirely in-house with software to fully outsourcing to a bureau service.
Payroll software
- Self-managed with software
- Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks
- Lower cost, more control
- Requires payroll knowledge
Bureau/outsourced
- Fully managed by provider
- Professional expertise
- Higher cost, less effort
- Good for complex situations
Key features of payroll services
When evaluating payroll services for Australian businesses, look for these essential features:
Essential payroll service features
Payroll service integration
For businesses with shift-based workers, integrating payroll services with time and attendance systems is crucial for accuracy and efficiency.
Integration benefits
Integrating time tracking with payroll eliminates manual data entry—a common source of errors. When hours flow automatically from timesheets to payroll, with award rates already applied, you reduce underpayment risk and save processing time. Look for payroll services that integrate with your workforce management tools.
Choosing a payroll service
Consider software if you:
- Have straightforward payroll needs
- Want to manage payroll in-house
- Have payroll knowledge or training
- Prefer lower ongoing costs
Consider outsourcing if you:
- Have complex awards or agreements
- Lack payroll expertise internally
- Want to reduce compliance risk
- Prefer hands-off payroll management
Common payroll service mistakes
Choosing on price alone
The cheapest service may lack features you need, leading to compliance issues or manual workarounds that cost more in time.
Ignoring integration capabilities
A payroll service that doesn't integrate with your time tracking means manual data entry and increased error risk.
Assuming outsourcing removes responsibility
Even with a bureau service, the employer remains legally responsible for compliance. Verify the service is doing things correctly.
Key takeaways
Payroll services range from software you manage yourself to full-service providers who handle everything. Choose based on your business complexity, internal expertise, and integration needs. All Australian payroll services must support Single Touch Payroll reporting.
RosterElf integrates with major Australian payroll services including Xero, MYOB, automatically exporting approved timesheets with correct award rates applied. This integration reduces manual entry and ensures accurate pay calculations.
