Best rostering apps for Xero
payroll integration (2026)
Tired of fixing payroll data after every Xero sync? We tested how accurately each rostering app sends timesheet data to Xero — including award calculations, penalty rates, and overtime — so you can find one that actually works.
· 10 min read
Written by
Steve Harris
Steve Harris
Workforce management specialist with 10+ years experience in Australian HR tech. Former operations manager in hospitality.
Edited by
Georgia Morgan
Georgia Morgan
Senior editor and compliance researcher. Background in employment law and Fair Work regulations.
Top 5 apps for Xero payroll sync (2026)
Ranked by payroll sync accuracy, award handling quality, and what Xero users are saying:
9.2 /10
Xero: 4.88/5
SMEs needing accurate award calculations
Learn moreENTERPRISE
8.3 /10
Xero: 4.0/5
Large teams with dedicated payroll staff
Read reviewTRACKING
7.7 /10
Xero: 4.5/5
Businesses prioritising time tracking
Read reviewOPTION
7.2 /10
Xero: 4.7/5
Budget-conscious small teams
Read reviewHR-FIRST
6.2 /10
Xero: 3.8/5
Businesses wanting HR + payroll combined
Read reviewOther notable Xero-compatible platforms we looked at
We also evaluated several other platforms with Xero connectivity. The top five above are our strongest recommendations, but these alternatives may suit specific needs:
Homebase
Best free option for small, hourly-based teams
Sling
Best for shift swaps and reducing labor costs
7shifts
Top-tier rostering for restaurants and hospitality
ServiceM8
Ideal for field service trades
ZoomShift
Excellent for hourly staff management
Pros and cons of Xero rostering add-ons
Using a dedicated rostering app with Xero has clear advantages, but there are trade-offs worth considering before you commit.
Advantages
- Award automation: Good rostering apps calculate penalty rates and allowances before data reaches Xero.
- Time savings: Automated sync eliminates manual timesheet entry and reduces payroll processing time.
- Audit trail: Changes to timesheets are tracked, providing clear records for Fair Work compliance.
- Staff self-service: Employees can view rosters and check timesheets without contacting managers.
Considerations
- Additional cost: Rostering apps add to monthly software expenses beyond Xero subscription.
- Setup time: Initial configuration requires mapping pay items and testing the sync process.
- Two systems: Staff and managers need to learn the rostering app alongside Xero workflows.
- Sync issues: Troubleshooting may require working with both rostering app and Xero support.
How we approached this review
We created accounts, connected to Xero, and ran real payroll syncs to see how each platform actually performs. This guide reflects what we experienced firsthand, not what the marketing pages promise.
- Tested Xero payroll sync accuracy with real timesheet data
- Verified award interpretation for Hospitality, Retail & SCHADS
- Analysed 500+ verified reviews from Xero App Store & Google
10+
Platforms
researched
5
Fully reviewed
end-to-end
1
Top pick
identified
Xero-focused
Local awards & sync
The goal: helping you find an app that syncs accurately with Xero, without the guesswork.
What we evaluated
Each platform was connected to Xero, synced with timesheet data, and assessed for payroll accuracy. We also looked closely at what verified users are saying on the Xero App Store and Google.
25%
Compliance
Award interpretation, Fair Work
25%
Ease of use
Setup time, daily usability
20%
Value
Pricing, hidden costs
15%
Support
Response times, onboarding
15%
Integrations
Xero sync quality, mapping
What we looked at
- • Connecting each app to Xero and setting up pay item mapping
- • Whether timesheet data synced accurately to Xero payroll
- • How well award interpretation worked for Hospitality, Retail, and SCHADS
- • How much manual cleanup was needed after each sync
- • What verified users say on the Xero App Store and Google
What Xero users should look for in a rostering app
Not all Xero-compatible rostering apps deliver the same payroll experience. In our view, these are the five capabilities that separate the good from the frustrating.
1. Seamless two-way Xero integration
- One-click timesheet export to Xero Payroll
- Two-way employee sync (pay rates, contact details, status)
- Automatic mapping of ordinary hours, overtime, penalties, and leave
👉 Eliminates manual data entry and payroll errors.
2. Automated award interpretation (Fair Work compliant)
- Built-in Australian modern award rules
- Automatic penalties, overtime, allowances, and casual loadings
- Break compliance based on shift length
👉 Helps ensure legal compliance and correct pay.
3. Accurate time and attendance tracking
- GPS-tagged and photo-verified clock-ins
- Tablet kiosk mode for on-site staff
- Geo-fencing to prevent off-site clock-ins
👉 Protects against time theft and payroll disputes.
4. Real-time labour costing and smart scheduling
- Live wage costs while building rosters
- Budget vs actual comparisons
- Auto-scheduling, shift swaps, and open shifts via mobile app
👉 Supports efficient rostering and cost control.
5. Xero App Store reviews and local support
- Xero reviews don't lie — only real Xero users can review, giving trustworthy insights into integration quality
- Australian-based support for payroll, awards, and urgent issues
- High ratings often indicate a reliable, well-maintained app
👉 Helps you pick software that works well in the real world.
Watch for hidden complexity
We've seen apps advertise "Xero integration" that actually require significant setup, custom field mapping, or third-party middleware. Ask specifically about the sync process during trials.
Why Xero App Store ratings matter
Unlike other review platforms, Xero App Store ratings come from verified users who have actually connected the app to their payroll. We find these ratings particularly useful for evaluating integration quality.
- Verified purchases — Only users who have connected the app can leave reviews, eliminating fake or paid reviews
- Integration-focused feedback — Reviews specifically address how well the sync works, revealing issues marketing materials don't mention
89 reviews
89 reviews
View on Xero →
179 reviews
179 reviews
View on Xero →
51 reviews
51 reviews
View on Xero →
50 reviews
50 reviews
View on Xero →
15 reviews
15 reviews
View on Xero →
Ratings as of January 2026. Click to view current ratings on Xero App Store.
What we're seeing in Xero reviews
RosterElf
Reviewers consistently describe the Xero sync as "seamless," with timesheets flowing directly into payroll without manual data entry. We noticed multiple reviews praising that award rates calculate correctly before export, reducing corrections. The 4.9 rating appears to reflect genuine satisfaction with integration quality and Australian-based support.
Deputy
Deputy's Xero integration receives mixed feedback. Larger teams appreciate the feature depth, but several reviewers mention needing manual adjustments after sync, particularly for complex awards. One pattern we noticed: users describing the integration as "requiring finessing" to get payroll data accurate. The 4.0 rating seems to reflect this variability.
Tanda
Tanda's Xero integration is generally well-received for time tracking accuracy. Reviewers appreciate the detailed timesheet data that flows through, though some mention the modular pricing means paying extra for full integration features. The 4.3 rating reflects solid — if not exceptional — sync performance.
Connecteam
Connecteam's Xero integration works via export/import rather than direct sync. Reviewers acknowledge this requires more manual steps but seem willing to accept the trade-off for affordable pricing. Users with simpler award structures report fewer issues than those with complex penalty rates. The 4.7 rating appears to reflect good value for straightforward use cases.
Employment Hero
Employment Hero's Xero connection receives the most variable feedback of the group. While reviewers praise the HR features, several note that the rostering module's sync requires careful setup and ongoing attention. Some report needing to reconcile data manually. The 3.4 rating suggests ongoing integration challenges for rostering-specific workflows.
Timesheets & payroll features
Here's how the top Xero rostering apps compare on the payroll features that matter most:
| Feature | Roster Elf | Deputy | Tanda | Connect eam | Empl. Hero |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto-generated timesheets | |||||
| Xero payroll integration | |||||
| Award interpretation (AU) | |||||
| Overtime & penalty rules | |||||
| Export-ready payroll files | |||||
| Pay run preview & validation |
Feature availability based on hands-on testing. Last updated February 2026.
Xero rostering app comparison
This comparison focuses on Xero-specific capabilities rather than general rostering features — because that's what Xero users care about most.
| App | Xero sync | Payroll accuracy | Award handling | Setup | Xero rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RosterElf | Automated | Excellent | Excellent | Low | 4.88/5 |
| Deputy | Automated | Good | Good | Medium | 4.0/5 |
| Tanda | Automated | Good | Good | Medium | 4.5/5 |
| Connecteam | Manual export | Fair | Limited | Medium | 4.7/5 |
| Employment Hero | Manual/Automated | Fair | Fair | High | 3.8/5 |
Ratings based on hands-on testing and Xero App Store feedback. Last updated February 2026.
#1 FOR XERO RosterElf Xero integration
RosterElf integrates directly with Xero for two-way sync. In our experience, timesheets flow through with award-compliant rates already calculated, which noticeably reduces manual corrections. The platform holds the highest rating (4.9/5) on the Xero App Store among rostering platforms we reviewed.
What stands out is how the payroll integration is built around Australian business needs — Fair Work penalties, break rules, and overtime calculations for major awards including Hospitality, Retail, Nurses, and SCHADS are handled within the app before syncing. For businesses juggling complex awards, this makes a real difference.
Xero strengths
- One-click timesheet export to Xero Payroll
- Award rates calculated before export
- Two-way employee sync with Xero
- Highest Xero App Store rating (4.9/5)
Limitations
- Only integrates with Xero and MYOB
- Other payroll systems require manual export
#2 ENTERPRISE Deputy Xero integration
Deputy connects to Xero for payroll processing, with timesheets approved in the app before export. The platform supports Australian award rates through configurable templates — though we found that businesses need to take responsibility for ensuring those settings are correct.
Award interpretation requires manual setup and ongoing maintenance. While Deputy offers flexible configuration options, we've seen feedback from users who need manual adjustments after sync, particularly for complex award structures. Worth noting: the payroll module is a separate add-on costing $5/user/month on top of the base plan.
Xero strengths
- Integrates with both Xero and MYOB
- Configurable award templates
- Strong reporting capabilities
Limitations
- Award setup requires manual configuration
- Payroll is a paid add-on module
- Some users report integration complexity
#3 TIME TRACKING Tanda Xero integration
Tanda is a Brisbane-based platform that connects to Xero for payroll processing. The award interpretation engine can calculate pay rates based on configured awards, and it holds certified status as a Xero-connected app with a 4.3/5 rating.
Award setup requires careful configuration and ongoing maintenance to keep things accurate. Tanda's strength is time tracking — detailed timesheet data flows through to Xero reliably. However, the modular pricing structure means you may pay extra for full integration features. Local Australian support is available, though in our observation, quality varies by plan level.
Xero strengths
- Certified Xero-connected app
- Award interpretation engine available
- Australian company with local support
- Strong compliance reporting
Limitations
- Award setup requires manual configuration
- Modular pricing can add up
- Support quality varies by plan
#4 BUDGET Connecteam Xero integration
Connecteam connects with Xero (AU) and MYOB Business for timesheet exports, syncing hours, overtime, and job data. However, this is a global platform not specifically designed for Australian payroll — you'll need to manually configure pay rules for your awards.
The lack of built-in Australian award support makes Connecteam a poor fit for businesses with complex award requirements. Prices are in USD with US-centric defaults. That said, for teams with simple pay structures who can handle manual award calculations, the affordable pricing and generous free tier may be worth the trade-off.
Xero strengths
- Integrates with Xero and MYOB
- Exports hours and job data
- Affordable pricing with free tier
Limitations
- No Australian award support
- Manual export process to Xero
- US-based support hours
- Prices in USD
#5 HR-FIRST Employment Hero Xero integration
Employment Hero is an Australian HR and payroll platform headquartered in Sydney that connects with Xero for payroll processing. The platform offers Australian-focused features like award interpretation and compliance tools, positioning itself as an all-in-one solution for HR, payroll, and rostering.
In our experience, the payroll setup proved challenging with some documentation gaps. The rostering module is an add-on to the core HR system rather than a purpose-built scheduling tool — and this shows in how it handles Xero sync. Some users report needing to reconcile data manually. The 3.4/5 Xero App Store rating suggests these integration challenges are fairly common.
Xero strengths
- Australian company with local features
- Built-in award interpretation
- All-in-one HR + payroll platform
Limitations
- Complex Xero setup process
- Some users report sync issues
- Rostering is secondary to HR focus
- Lowest Xero App Store rating (3.4/5)
Choosing the right app for your Xero payroll
We've developed this decision framework to help you narrow down the options:
How complex are your awards?
If you employ staff under Modern Awards with penalty rates, allowances, and overtime rules, you need an app that calculates these before syncing to Xero — not after.
What's your team size?
Some platforms are overkill for small teams, others don't scale well for enterprise.
How much Xero adjustment can you tolerate?
Some apps sync timesheet hours only, requiring you to apply pay rates in Xero. Others send fully costed data ready for payroll.
What's your budget priority?
Cheaper isn't always better if it creates compliance risk or requires more manual payroll work.
Our advice: Trial your top 2-3 choices with real timesheet data before committing. Pay close attention to how much manual cleanup is needed in Xero after sync — in our experience, this hidden workload often determines long-term satisfaction with the app.
Looking for a broader comparison? See our full rostering software buying guide for detailed reviews covering features, pricing, mobile apps, and industry recommendations beyond Xero integration.
FAQs about Xero rostering apps
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It depends on your business size and award complexity. For Australian SMEs needing accurate award interpretation, RosterElf consistently receives strong reviews for payroll accuracy. Larger enterprises may prefer Deputy or Tanda for their broader feature sets, though in our experience these often require more manual adjustment during payroll sync.
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Most modern rostering apps offer automated Xero sync, but the quality varies significantly. Some require manual export and import steps, while others push timesheet data directly to Xero payroll. The key difference isn't whether sync exists, but how accurately the data flows through — particularly for penalty rates, overtime, and allowances.
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Lower ratings typically stem from payroll sync issues rather than rostering features. Common complaints we see include incorrect award calculations, missing penalty rates, and the need for manual corrections. Apps purpose-built for Australian awards tend to score higher because they handle the complexity before data reaches Xero.
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Most Xero rostering apps offer free trials, typically 14-30 days. Our advice: test the full payroll sync process with real timesheet data if possible. Pay attention to whether award rates calculate correctly and how much manual adjustment is needed before approving payroll in Xero.
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Incorrect data usually requires manual correction in Xero before processing payroll. This can include adjusting hours, fixing pay rates, or adding missing allowances. The time spent on corrections is a hidden cost of rostering apps that don't handle awards well. For setup guidance, see our Xero payroll integration page.
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Xero App Store ratings are a useful indicator but shouldn't be your only factor. Consider how well the app handles your specific awards, the quality of Australian support, and the total cost including any required add-ons. A highly-rated app for simple payroll may struggle with complex award structures.
See how RosterElf works with Xero
Start a free trial to test the payroll sync with your actual timesheet data.