How to Migrate from Xero to MYOB

Complete Xero to MYOB migration guide. What data transfers automatically, GST code mapping, and payroll switchover checklist for Australian businesses.

Estimated time: 3-5 hoursDifficulty: Moderate
XeroMyob
What this guide coversThis guide walks you through every stage of this migration for Australian businesses. You will learn what data transfers automatically, what requires manual import via CSV, and how to handle AU-specific requirements like BAS reporting periods, STP finalisation and bank feed reconnection.

What Transfers & What Doesn’t

Not everything moves across automatically. Use this table to plan your migration scope.

Data TypeAuto Transfer?Notes
Chart of AccountsYesExport CSV from Xero, import into MYOB — remap GST codes to MYOB tax codes
ContactsYesCSV export/import — split customers and suppliers into separate imports in MYOB
InvoicesPartialOutstanding invoices only — MYOB requires specific CSV format
BillsPartialOpen bills can be imported — closed bills stay in Xero archive
Bank TransactionsNoRe-establish bank feeds via MYOB's direct feed connections
Payroll DataNoRe-enter all employee details, YTD figures, and super fund information
Fixed AssetsNoManually recreate asset register with depreciation schedules
BAS HistoryNoMaintain Xero read-only access for historical ATO lodgements

Step-by-Step Migration Guide

  1. Step 1

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  2. Step 2

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  3. Step 3

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  4. Step 4

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  5. Step 5

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  6. Step 6

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  7. Step 7

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  8. Step 8

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

  9. Step 9

    Follow the detailed instructions for this step of the migration process. Ensure all data is verified before proceeding to the next step.

Pre-Migration Checklist

  • Reconcile all bank accounts up to the conversion date
  • Lodge all outstanding BAS and IAS returns
  • Finalise and lodge STP report for the current pay period
  • Export key reports (P&L, Balance Sheet, Trial Balance) as PDFs
  • Back up your data to an external drive and cloud storage
  • Notify your BAS agent or bookkeeper about the planned switch date
Caution: Mid-Year Migration & STP ImplicationsSwitching software mid-financial year introduces risk around Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting. If you migrate between 1 Jul and 30 Jun, you must finalise an STP event in your old system before cutting over, then lodge a “Year to Date” event in the new system with carried-forward figures.