Payroll Service Australia Review: A Better Alternative?
An honest comparison of Payroll Service Australia and Accountee. Discover why growing businesses are choosing comprehensive accounting services with Big 4 expertise over basic payroll processing.
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About Payroll Service Australia
Payroll Service Australia, operated by Symarco, is a straightforward payroll outsourcing service that focuses on the administrative aspects of payroll processing for Australian businesses. The service offers several tiers ranging from basic pay slip generation to premium online outsourcing with employee self-service capabilities.
With pricing starting at $5 per person for weekly pays, $7 for fortnightly, and $10 for monthly pays (with a $20 minimum per pay run), Payroll Service Australia provides a cost-effective solution for businesses that need basic payroll processing. They can work with your existing MYOB, QuickBooks, or Reckon software, handling timesheets, pay slip generation, and salary and superannuation payments.
The service has worked with recognizable Australian brands including Nando's Australia and CBUS, demonstrating their capability to handle payroll for established businesses. However, their focus remains primarily on payroll processing rather than comprehensive accounting or strategic financial advice.
What Payroll Service Australia Does Well
Payroll Service Australia has several strengths for basic payroll needs
Simple Pricing
Straightforward per-person pricing structure that's easy to understand and budget for.
Software Integration
Works with your existing MYOB, QuickBooks, or Reckon software seamlessly.
Flexible Service Levels
Multiple service tiers from basic pay slips to premium online outsourcing with employee self-service.
Established Track Record
Experience working with recognizable Australian brands like Nando's and CBUS.
Leave Management
Handles accrual and recording of annual and sick leave as part of the service.
Compliance Focus
Ensures compliance with relevant Australian payroll legislation and requirements.
How Accountee Compares
More than just payroll—comprehensive accounting services
Comprehensive Services Beyond Payroll
While Payroll Service Australia focuses solely on payroll processing, Accountee provides a complete accounting solution. You get payroll (starting at $4 per person/pay run), plus bookkeeping, BAS preparation, financial reporting, and tax planning—all managed by the same dedicated team. This integrated approach means better insights, fewer vendors to manage, and more strategic value for your business.
Dedicated Teams Who Know Your Business
Accountee assigns you a dedicated bookkeeper and accountant who learn your business inside and out. Unlike basic payroll services where you're just submitting timesheets, our team proactively identifies issues, suggests improvements, and provides strategic advice. You're not just getting payroll processing—you're getting a financial partner who understands your goals and helps you achieve them.
Big 4 Expertise and Quality Standards
Our leadership team comes from BDO, NAB, and Westpac, bringing Big 4 standards to every engagement. Every piece of work is reviewed by ex-Big 4 Australian accountants who understand complex financial matters beyond basic payroll. This means you get strategic advice on tax planning, business structure, growth strategies, and financial optimization—expertise that basic payroll services simply can't provide.
Better Value for Growing Businesses
While Payroll Service Australia charges $5-$10 per person for payroll only, Accountee provides payroll at $4 per person/pay run plus comprehensive accounting services for a simple monthly retainer. When you factor in the cost of separate bookkeeping, BAS preparation, and accounting services, Accountee delivers significantly more value. You're not just saving money—you're getting exponentially more service and expertise for a similar or lower total cost.
Proactive Communication and Advice
Basic payroll services are reactive—you submit timesheets, they process payroll. Accountee is proactive. We reach out before deadlines, flag potential issues, suggest tax-saving strategies, and provide regular financial insights. Our smaller size means faster response times and more personalized attention. You're not just a client number—you're a valued partner whose success matters to us.
Which Solution Is Right for You?
Choose Payroll Service Australia If:
- You only need basic payroll processing with no other accounting services
- You already have bookkeeping and accounting handled elsewhere
- You don't need strategic financial advice or proactive support
- You're comfortable managing multiple service providers
- Your payroll needs are very simple and straightforward
Choose Accountee If:
- You want comprehensive accounting services, not just payroll
- You value dedicated teams who learn your business and provide strategic advice
- You want Big 4 expertise and quality standards at competitive pricing
- You're a growing business that needs proactive financial partnership
- You prefer one integrated provider for all your accounting needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Payroll Service Australia and alternatives
Get More Than Just Payroll Processing
Experience comprehensive accounting services with Big 4 expertise, dedicated teams, and strategic advice—all at competitive pricing. Book a free consultation today.