Running a small online business in Australia can be challenging, but the right tools and resources make it easier to manage finances, marketing, daily operations, and more. This guide highlights the most helpful tools grouped by category, with a focus on Australian-based or Australia-friendly platforms—whether you’re just starting out or scaling up.

Financial Tools (Accounting & Invoicing)

About 67% of Australian SMEs consider accounting software their most important tech investment in 2025.

Top Picks:

• Xero: Cloud-based platform with GST/BAS reporting, Single Touch Payroll, invoicing, and integrations. From A$30/month.

• MYOB: Local solution with scalable plans and full ATO compliance. Plans from A$24/month.

• QuickBooks Online: Strong reporting, GST-ready, and includes payroll. From A$29/month.

• Rounded: Built for Aussie freelancers and sole traders. Flat fee around A$15–20/month.

• Zoho Books: Free plan available; paid plans start at A$20/month with GST compliance.

Bonus mentions: Zeller (free invoicing tool), Wave Accounting (limited in AU).

Marketing Platforms

Promoting your business is easier with these marketing tools:

• Canva: Australian-made design platform. Free plan; Pro from A$18/month.

• Mailchimp: Email marketing with free tier up to 500 contacts. Essentials starts at ~A$20/month.

• Campaign Monitor: Stylish emails and local support. From A$9/month.

• Klaviyo: Powerful email and SMS marketing platform popular among ecommerce brands. Offers detailed segmentation, automation, and deep Shopify integration. Free for up to 250 contacts; paid plans start at ~A$30/month.

• JustUno: On-site conversion platform used to create pop-ups, banners, and lead-gen overlays. Helps grow your email list and improve onsite conversions. Free trial available; paid plans start at ~US$29/month.

• Email On Acid: Email testing and QA platform that previews campaigns across 90+ clients and devices. Ensures your emails look and perform as intended. Plans start around US$89/month, ideal for agencies or teams.

• Buffer: Social post scheduler with Free plan; Essentials from A$6/month.

• Google Business Profile: Free tool to boost local visibility.

Productivity & Project Management

Stay organised and efficient with these tools:

• Trello: Visual project boards; great for solo or small teams. Free plan; Business Class from A$17.50/user.

• Asana: Task/project management with timeline views. Free for up to 15 users; Premium from A$14/user.

• Slack: Streamlined team communication. Free plan; Standard from A$8–9/user.

• Google Workspace: Gmail, Docs, Drive and more with your domain. From A$8.40/user.

• Monday.com: Visual work management with automation. Free for 2 users; Standard plans from A$14/user.

Legal & HR Tools

Ensure compliance and streamline hiring/admin tasks:

• Lawpath: DIY legal docs + on-demand lawyers. Plans from A$99/year.

• LegalVision: Unlimited legal help via membership. Custom pricing for SMEs.

• Employment Hero: HR and payroll suite with STP compliance. From A$6/employee/month.

• Fair Work Ombudsman Tools: Free templates and calculators (wages, contracts, etc.).

Learning & Community Resources

Stay sharp and connected with these support networks:

• Business.gov.au: Free templates, grants finder, business checklists.

• ATO Small Business Education: Free courses, webinars, and GST/BAS tools.

• Flying Solo: Australia’s largest small biz community with forums and advice.

• SmartCompany: News, insights, and expert columns for Aussie businesses.

• Online Communities: Groups like ASBN on Facebook, r/ausbiz on Reddit, and LinkedIn groups offer real peer-to-peer advice.

Final Thought

Whether you’re just starting out or managing growth, these resources help save time, reduce costs, and make better decisions. Start with free plans where possible, and invest in the platforms that match your business needs as you scale.

With the right mix of local tools and support, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Sources: Prospa, Arielle, Rounded, Zoho, Zapier, Capterra, Fair Work, ATO, Flying Solo, Business.gov.au