There are a few non-negotiables in business, and at the top of that list? Proper accounting software. If you’re still using spreadsheets or considering them as your primary method of tracking income, expenses, and BAS, this is your sign to stop.
It’s time to stop making things more complicated than they need to be and start using tools that support the business (and lifestyle) you want.
Why Spreadsheets Just Don’t Cut It Anymore
Look, I love a good spreadsheet. I’m an accountant; it’s in the blood. But let’s be honest: spreadsheets break, formulas go missing, they don’t reconcile, they’re hard to keep consistent, and they’re not audit-proof.
They can be a good starting point when you’re just experimenting with an idea, but if you’re trading for real invoicing, hiring, or growing, you need software designed for the job.
Xero: The Only Platform I Recommend
At NGR Accounting, we live and breathe Xero. Why? Because it’s the most user-friendly, robust, and scalable accounting software for small to mid-sized businesses. It connects to everything, keeps you ATO-compliant, and gives you the data you need to make wise decisions.
It’s not just a place to dump transactions. Xero becomes your financial hub, your source of truth.
- Lodging BAS and keeping your GST in check? Done.
- Paying yourself wages and managing super? Easy.
- Sharing access with your bookkeeper, team, or accountant? All possible, with different access levels.
Whether you’re a one-person show or you’re building an empire, Xero grows with you.
Power Up With These Add-On Tools
Your accounting software is the base, but when you connect it to other tools, the magic starts.
1. Hubdoc (Free with Xero) or Dext
Gone are the days of storing receipts in shoeboxes. These tools read your invoices and receipts, and then send them straight into Xero.
- Snap a photo, and it’s logged.
- Receive an invoice via email? Forward it straight in.
- GST and supplier details are automatically recognised.
This is your digital filing cabinet – and it’s ATO-audit friendly.
2. Ignition (For Service Businesses)
Want to get paid faster and look more professional? Ignition lets you send out client proposals, collect e-signatures, and even take payment details up front.
No more awkward payment chases—just smooth, automated billing connected directly to Xero.
3. Stripe, PayPal or Square
Attach these to your invoices so clients can pay you with one click.
- There’s a small merchant fee, but if you build it into your pricing, you’ll get paid faster and have less cash flow stress.
4. Swyft or Fathom (For Reporting & Forecasting)
Want to see how you’re performing? These reporting tools plug into Xero and give you dashboards, forecasts, and powerful visual insights.
- You’ll know what’s working and what’s draining your cash.
But Isn’t Software Expensive?
No, not when you consider what it gives back. Software is an investment in clarity, compliance, and cash flow.
- For as little as $35/month, you get a powerful system that replaces hours of admin, reduces errors, and keeps you in the ATO’s good books.
You’re not just buying software, you’re buying peace of mind.
Get the Foundations Right
If your books are a mess, your cash flow is a mystery, or you’re still manually tracking invoices, please, stop making it hard on yourself. The right software doesn’t just make things easier; it sets you up for growth.
At NGR Accounting, we don’t just recommend tools, we train our clients how to use them properly, so they get results.
Want to understand your cash flow better before investing in any software?
Grab our free Cash Flow Guide here:
https://ngraccounting.com.au/cashflowguide/
It breaks down the basics in a simple way and shows you how to take control of your money, so you can stop guessing and start planning with confidence.
Ready to get started with accounting software?
Whether you’re switching from spreadsheets or upgrading your existing system, we can walk you through the best software stack for your business and get it appropriately implemented from day one.
Let’s chat. Reach out to the team at NGR Accounting and take control of your numbers – without the stress.