Convert MYOB to Xero_ A Step-by-Step Migration Guide in 2025

Transitioning from MYOB to Xero has become a strategic move for Australian businesses looking to enhance financial visibility, automate accounting processes, and improve operational efficiency. As digital accounting solutions evolve, more organisations are choosing Xero over traditional systems like MYOB to simplify workflows, enable data-driven decisions, and access real-time financial insights. NCS Australia provides a practical guide to help businesses understand the benefits of switching, key considerations before migration, and a structured approach to ensure a smooth conversion.

When comparing MYOB vs Xero, both platforms offer robust accounting functionality, yet they differ in approach and capabilities. MYOB, developed in Australia, is recognised for its comprehensive offline financial tools, making it suitable for small and medium-sized businesses that rely on traditional workflows. Xero, a cloud-based solution from New Zealand, stands out for its intuitive interface, automated workflows, live reporting, and seamless collaboration features. For Australian SMEs, Xero offers enhanced scalability, flexibility, and integration options that streamline financial management while supporting growth.

Before migrating from MYOB to Xero, businesses must evaluate critical factors such as data compatibility, integration requirements, user training, and regulatory compliance. Assessing these areas ensures that historical transactions, payroll data, invoices, and reports migrate accurately and that the team can adapt quickly to Xero’s platform. Selecting a reliable migration tool, such as Jet Convert MYOB to Xero, or partnering with professional accounting services can significantly reduce errors, save time, and maintain accuracy during the transition.

Australian businesses should also consider cost analysis, platform features, reporting and analytics, third-party integrations, and user experience before making the switch. Xero’s subscription plans (AUD $33–$85 per month in 2025) include automation capabilities, real-time bank feeds, and cloud collaboration tools that often justify the investment through efficiency gains. Xero’s analytics and KPI tracking allow finance teams to make informed, data-driven decisions, while its cloud-native design ensures a smooth user experience and reduces the likelihood of bookkeeping errors.

Migrating from MYOB to Xero can be completed successfully through a 6-step process:

Plan Ahead – Identify data for migration, including invoices, payroll, and historical transactions, and set a clear timeline to avoid workflow disruption.

Choose Your Migration Tool – Use recommended tools like Jet Convert or outsource to professional accounting providers for secure data transfer.

Export Data from MYOB – Gather chart of accounts, invoices, bills, payroll, and historical transactions to ensure completeness.

Import Data into Xero – Upload exported data via CSV or automation tools to align financial reporting accurately.

1. Aesha Shah October 9, 2025
Convert MYOB to Xero: A Step-by-Step Migration Guide
in 2025
ncscorp.com.au/blog/convert-myob-to-xero/
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2. Converting MYOB to Xero has become a strategic move for many Australian businesses
aiming to enhance flexibility, automate processes, and gain real-time financial visibility. As
digital accounting continues to evolve, more organisations are choosing to change from
MYOB to Xero to simplify workflows and make data-driven decisions with confidence.
This guide unpacks why so many firms are transitioning, highlights the advantages Xero
offers over traditional systems, and outlines the essential steps to ensure a smooth
migration. Whether you’re still exploring options or ready to leap, in this article, NCS
Australia provides practical insights to help you navigate the process and understand how
it can transform your business operations.
MYOB vs Xero: A Quick Overview
When you compare Xero and MYOB, both provide robust accounting features, but their
approaches differ. MYOB, developed in Australia, is trusted for its comprehensive
financial tools and offline functionality for small and medium-sized businesses.
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3. On the other hand, Xero, a cloud-based platform from New Zealand, is widely recognised
for its intuitive interface, automation, and real-time reporting. Many businesses now
evaluate this MYOB Xero comparison to see which system best supports growth,
collaboration, and efficiency.
Before you convert MYOB to Xero, consider these key factors to ensure a successful
migration:
Data Compatibility: Assess which historical data, transactions, and reports can be
accurately migrated to Xero.
Integration Requirements: Identify the third-party apps and bank feeds currently
used in MYOB and confirm their compatibility with Xero.
User Training: Ensure your team receives adequate training to understand Xero’s
dashboard, reporting tools, and automation features.
Compliance and Accuracy: Verify that financial data aligns with Australian
accounting and tax regulations post-migration.
Migration Partner: Choose a reliable migration tool or partner, such as Jet Convert
MYOB to Xero, to streamline the process and minimise errors.
What Australian Businesses Must Consider Before Migrating from MYOB
to Xero
Before you convert MYOB to Xero, consider more than just the technical migration. The
decision should factor in costs, features, integrations, and long-term usability to ensure
your financial systems boost efficiency, visibility, and team productivity.
Here are the key considerations Australian businesses should evaluate before making the
switch:
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4. Cost Analysis: Review the pricing of both platforms, including subscriptions, add-
ons, and setup costs. Xero’s 2025 small business plans range from AUD $33 to $85
per month, while MYOB often adds fees for payroll or advanced features. Consider
whether Xero’s automation and efficiency gains justify the investment.
Features and Functionality: When comparing MYOB vs Xero, consider which best
supports your operations. Xero offers automation, real-time bank feeds, and cloud
collaboration, while MYOB is strong for offline access and legacy workflows.
Understanding your team’s priorities ensures a smoother transition.
Reporting and Analytics: Strong financial decision-making relies on effective
reporting. Compare both systems’ analytics to see how easily you can generate
insights, track performance, and create custom dashboards. Xero’s live KPI tracking
helps streamline strategic planning.
Integration with Third-Party Apps: Modern businesses need connected systems.
Check if Xero integrates with your CRM, inventory, or payment platforms. With
1,000+ app integrations, it’s highly flexible for Australian SMEs.
User Experience: Assess how intuitive each platform is. A well-designed interface
speeds up bookkeeping and reduces errors. Xero’s cloud-native design is praised
for simplicity and ease of use, ideal for digital-first teams.
By assessing these critical areas, your organisation can make an informed decision that
ensures not just a migration, but a long-term transformation in how your business
manages finances and growth.
6 Simple Steps to Migrate from MYOB to Xero
Migrating from MYOB to Xero doesn’t have to be daunting. With proper planning, the right
tools, and a clear process, your business can transition smoothly while ensuring accuracy
and compliance. 
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5. A structured, step-by-step approach, from preparation to final reconciliation, is key to a
successful migration. Here’s how to confidently convert MYOB to Xero in six simple steps.
1. Plan Ahead
Invest time in preparation. Identify the data to migrate contacts, invoices, payroll, and
historical transactions and set a clear timeline. Planning early helps anticipate challenges
and ensures a smooth transition without disrupting workflows.
2. Choose Your Migration Tool
Select the right tool for a seamless migration. Many businesses use Jet Convert MYOB to
Xero, officially recommended by Xero, to automate data transfer. Alternatively,
professional outsourced accounting providers can manage the process securely and
accurately.
3. Export Data from MYOB
Export your chart of accounts, invoices, bills, payroll, and transaction history. This can be
done via MYOB’s export function or by outsourcing experts to ensure completeness and
accuracy.
4. Import Data into Xero
Upload your exported data into Xero, typically via CSV. Tools like Jet Convert can
automate this step and reduce errors, ensuring your financials align with reporting dates
for a clean start.
5. Set Up Xero Settings
Configure Xero to match your business operations, chart of accounts, tax rates, payment
terms, user permissions, and invoice templates. Customisation ensures consistency while
leveraging Xero’s automation and cloud flexibility.
6. Test and Reconcile
Review financial data, compare trial balances, and reconcile accounts. Running both
systems in parallel briefly can catch discrepancies early, ensuring accuracy before fully
operating in Xero.
A structured approach not only ensures a successful migration but also boosts long-term
efficiency. According to Xero’s 2024 Small Business Insights, businesses that digitise and
automate accounting save up to 10 hours per week on manual bookkeeping.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Transition from MYOB to Xero
Successfully converting MYOB to Xero requires careful preparation and a thoughtful
approach. By following best practices, businesses can minimise disruptions and make the
transition as seamless as possible. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth migration:
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6. Gather Essential Data: Collect all relevant information, including employee and
customer records, invoices, bank statements, and historical transactions, before
starting the migration. Having complete and organised data will make the import
process into Xero far more efficient.
Familiarise Yourself with Xero: Take time to explore Xero’s interface and features.
Understanding how dashboards, reporting tools, and automation functions work will
help your team navigate the system confidently once the data is migrated.
Start Small: Begin by transferring a limited set of data, such as a few months’ worth
of transactions. This approach allows you to test the process, identify any errors,
and make corrections without risking large volumes of information.
Exercise Patience: Adapting to a new accounting platform can feel challenging
initially. Move methodically, provide training for your team, and allow a learning
period to ensure a successful transition from MYOB to Xero.
By applying these strategies, businesses can achieve a smoother migration, minimise
errors, and fully leverage Xero’s cloud-based capabilities for real-time financial insights.
Conclusion
Transitioning from MYOB to Xero is more than just moving data, it’s an opportunity for
Australian businesses to enhance efficiency, automate workflows, and gain real-time
financial insights. Careful planning, selecting the right migration tools such as Jet Convert
MYOB to Xero, and following a structured approach ensure a smooth and accurate
transition.
When you compare Xero and MYOB, Xero’s cloud-based platform, intuitive interface, and
extensive integrations clearly stand out, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking
scalability and streamlined accounting processes. 
Understanding this MYOB Xero comparison allows organisations like NCS Australia to
make informed decisions and confidently embrace the advantages of modern, digital
accounting.
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