What is Xero migration?
It’s the move from your current accounting system into Xero with a defined cutover date and a verified set of balances. Practically, it means exporting data from MYOB, QuickBooks, Reckon or spreadsheets, converting it, checking GST and payroll settings, and going live in Xero with reconciled opening positions.
Common starting points include:
- Switching from desktop MYOB/QuickBooks to cloud accounting.
- Consolidating multiple files/entities or cleaning up messy books.
- Setting up STP Phase 2 payroll in Xero for Australian compliance.
- Preparing for better cash flow, reporting and add‑ons using the Xero ecosystem.
If you need a hand planning or executing the move, you can compare bookkeeping services, BAS agent services and accounting services, or Talk to a Xero expert.
What moves to Xero (and what doesn’t) in Australia
- Usually included: chart of accounts, contacts (customers/suppliers), items, unpaid invoices and bills, opening balances and optionally past transactions (e.g., 12–24 months).
- GST/BAS: GST codes must be mapped so BAS and activity statements are accurate. Verify GST on payables/receivables and check PAYG settings.
- Payroll: Employee records and year‑to‑date figures often need a structured import and reconciliation. Complete STP Phase 2 setup in Xero before your next pay run. See payroll services.
- Bank feeds: You reconnect these inside Xero; feeds don’t “migrate”. Bank rules need to be recreated.
- Fixed assets: Often re‑set in Xero with asset register details and depreciation methods checked by your tax accountant.
- Attachments/files: Rarely convert. Keep an accessible archive from your old system.
- Tracking categories, projects, inventory and multi‑currency: May require fresh setup and mapping after conversion.
Reliable conversions are streamlined when you engage a Xero‑certified bookkeeper or accountant who works with recognised tools and Australian tax settings. If you’re unsure how deep your conversion should go, Request a Xero migration review.
What to compare before you commit
Scope & history
Confirm exactly what is included in your Xero migration: open items only or 12–24 months of history, payroll setup, fixed assets, tracking, inventory and cleanup time.
GST/BAS mapping
Check how GST codes will be mapped and tested so BAS is correct from the first lodgement. Decide who is responsible for verifying opening balances and the first BAS in Xero (BAS agent services).
Payroll & STP
Agree the steps to bring employees and year‑to‑date totals across and complete STP Phase 2 setup in Xero before the next pay. Consider super, leave and awards (payroll services).
Timing & cost
Confirm turnaround, go‑live date (ideally post‑BAS), communication, and whether pricing is fixed or time‑based. Ask for a post‑go‑live support window.
Cutover and go‑live: a simple checklist
- Choose a cutover date (often month‑end or right after BAS lodgement).
- Clean the source file: reconcile banks, close old contacts/items, fix obvious coding and GST errors.
- Export and convert: run final trial balance and Aged AR/AP, then convert to Xero.
- Verify opening balances: match trial balance, AR/AP, GST control and payroll YTD between systems.
- Set up Xero: GST settings, chart, tracking, user roles, templates, bank rules and key app integrations.
- Reconnect bank feeds and perform a short parallel run on critical processes.
- Complete STP Phase 2 setup and run the first pay from Xero if payroll applies.
- File the first BAS from Xero after reviewing GST totals and reports with your BAS agent or accountant.
If you prefer guided delivery from scoping to the first BAS in Xero, bookkeeping and accounting teams can manage the whole changeover. Ask about moving to Xero
Frequently asked questions
What is Xero migration?
Xero migration moves your accounting from MYOB, QuickBooks, Reckon or spreadsheets into Xero with a defined cutover date. It includes bringing in your chart of accounts, contacts, unpaid invoices/bills and opening balances, then setting up GST/BAS and STP payroll so you can lodge and pay staff correctly in Australia.
What data actually comes across?
Core lists (chart, contacts, items), open AR/AP, opening balances and optional history. Bank feeds are reconnected in Xero, documents seldom convert, and fixed assets/payroll typically need a structured setup so depreciation, super and STP are right from day one.
How long and how much does it cost?
Straightforward files take 2–5 business days; complex or multi‑entity migrations can take 1–3 weeks including checks. Costs depend on data quality, history, payroll and cleanup. Ask for a fixed scope and a post‑go‑live support period. Request a quote.
Do I need a bookkeeper, BAS agent or accountant?
DIY can work for very small, clean files. Engage a professional when you have GST/BAS, payroll/STP, inventory, multi‑currency, tracking, or when you need reliable opening balances and the first BAS lodged correctly. Compare bookkeeper vs accountant or go straight to Get expert help.