8 best HR software for Aussie businesses

Human resources software is a must-have if you want your workplace to run smoothly. It takes the chaos out of hiring, onboarding, payroll, and staying compliant, so you’re not drowning in admin. In Australia, HR software is even more important. Because there’s Fair Work rules, loads of Modern Awards, and other local laws to keep on top of. 

Plus, you still need to keep your team engaged and your business moving forward. It’s a lot to manage ‘by hand’.

The tough part is there’s a sea of HR systems out there. Each one comes with different features. And not all of them are made for Aussie businesses. That’s why we’ve put this guide together. It lists the best HR software, along with their features, strengths, and weaknesses, making it easier for you to choose the best one for your team. 

Information in this article is accurate as of 03/07/2025. Software details and pricing may change, so always check with the provider for the latest updates.

8 best HR software in Australia

1. Rippling

Capterra rating: 4.9/5 ⭐

Rippling is HR software built for Australian businesses. It pulls your HR, payroll, and IT into one system. So, instead of jumping between different tools, everything lives in one spot, giving you a clear, live view of your whole team. It suits any size business, from small startups to global companies. It also takes care of things like cross-border compliance and department workflows without breaking a sweat. Pricing starts at AUD $12 per employee a month. You only pay for the parts you actually need. This makes it pretty cost-effective once you factor in the time and mistakes it saves.

It’s simple to use, with a clean, modern layout that HR teams, managers, and staff can pick up without training. Rippling connects with over 600 tools, so your systems stay in sync without extra admin. Support is fast and reliable. It comes through phone, chat, and email. You’ll get onboarding help and a customer success team if you’ve got a bigger setup. There’s also a solid knowledge base if you like figuring things out yourself.

Specific HR needs Rippling caters to

• Rippling smooths out onboarding by automatically setting up new employees with payroll, benefits, and even their work devices.
• The platform supports performance management, with tools for setting goals, giving feedback, and tracking progress across the team.
• Rippling takes care of payroll and tax compliance in Australia (and globally). This includes award interpretation, super contributions, and Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting.
• The system makes easy work of time tracking. It syncs hours worked directly into payroll, so there’s no double-handling.
• Rippling manages employee benefits, including enrolment, eligibility tracking, and reporting.
• The platform gives you full visibility over headcount, turnover, and employee costs, with detailed analytics and reporting.

Strengths

✅ Everything in one platform: Rippling combines HR, payroll, and IT in a single system. This eliminates the need for multiple disconnected tools, reducing double-handling and keeping your data in sync across departments.

✅ Built for local and global teams: Whether you're hiring in Australia or managing international contractors, Rippling takes care of local compliance, tax calculations, and payroll in over 150 countries.

✅ Modular and scalable: Rippling’s modular structure lets you start small and add features as your business grows. It works just as well for startups as it does for global teams with more complex needs.

‘As an HR Generalist, Rippling has revolutionised the way I work and manage our business. It has reduced the basic rate of "human error", increased and streamlined all onboarding procedures from first step to last, improved our overall compliance in both the fields of Accounting and Human Resource. It has given our employees an all-in-one platform where they have agency to regulate their benefits, understand their wages, easily make changes during QLE's and give them the confidence to understand their benefits, equity shares, offers and payroll. Rippling integrates into Culture Amp (our Employee Engagement software) and SLACK - But the ease of use and ease of implementation is what I like most.’ 

- Amy K, Human Resource Generalist

2. BambooHR

Capterra rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

BambooHR is a US-built HR platform. It manages the basics like employee records, leave, and hiring from one dashboard. It’s not specifically designed around Aussie compliance. So, you might need to do some extra legwork for local rules. It mostly suits smaller teams with straightforward HR needs. Pricing starts at around AUD $380 a month. But costs climb fast when you add features like performance or payroll tools.

The interface is relatively tidy and easy to use. It connects with Slack, Google Workspace, and some accounting or payroll systems. Support is by phone and email, but not always in Aussie business hours. There’s also a help centre if you’d rather figure things out yourself.

Specific HR needs BambooHR caters to

• BambooHR provides a central database to manage employee information securely.
• The platform enables employees to request leave, and managers to approve and track entitlements.
• It offers an applicant tracking system to manage hiring and candidate communication.
• BambooHR includes performance management tools, such as goal tracking and review templates.
• The system offers simple reporting tools to track team trends.
• Its mobile app enables employees and managers to access key features remotely.

Strengths

✅ Streamlined hub for core HR tasks: BambooHR pulls key people data into one place, giving small teams a single, organised dashboard.

✅ Simple leave and hiring workflows: It can make time-off requests and basic applicant tracking quick and straightforward.

‘As an HR professional, my experience with BambooHR has been positive. The platform has significantly streamlined our processes.’

- Jennifer, HR Director

Weaknesses

❌ Customisation roadblocks: The platform doesn't offer endless customisation options. Businesses with intricate workflows or specific user permission needs may find this challenging.

❌ Newer benefits system: BambooHR’s benefits administration features are relatively new. This means they can lack the depth of more established solutions.

❌ Lacks local compliance support: The system doesn’t offer built-in support for Australian compliance needs like STP, superannuation, or award interpretation. The platform also lacks a native payroll solution for the Australian market.

‘Overall, the experience with BambooHR was okay. It wasn't the best, but it wasn't the worst either. We opted to leave BambooHR for a more robust platform that offered more support with payroll compliance, but there are features from BambooHR that I miss.’ 

- Alysia, Assistant Financial Controller

3. BrightHR

Capterra rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

BrightHR is a simple, mobile-first HR platform that covers basics like leave, clock-ins, and expenses. Managers can easily see who’s in, who’s off, and which shifts still need filling. It’s practical without being overly detailed. It can be a suitable pick for small Australian businesses without complex awards or custom workflows that just want to keep HR admin ticking along. Pricing starts around AUD $40 per employee per month, though that climbs if you add extras like BrightSafe or HR advisory support.

The interface is clean and reasonably easy to use. It doesn’t have strong built-in integrations with Aussie payroll systems like Xero or MYOB, so you’ll need to export CSV files. Support runs by phone and email during Australian business hours, and there’s a help centre too. If you pay more for Bright Advice, you get 24/7 access to HR specialists for extra compliance help.

Specific HR needs BrightHR caters to

• BrightHR tracks annual, sick, and carers’ leave. It enables staff to request time off in the app while managers can approve or decline in seconds.
• The platform’s roster tool helps managers build and share shift schedules. It also notifies employees of any changes.
• Its Blip mobile app clocks staff in and out with geolocation, adding real-time attendance data to your dashboard.
• BrightHR offers secure document storage that keeps contracts, policies, and certificates in one place.
• The platform’s expense management feature lets employees upload receipts. Finance teams can review and approve on the spot.
• The system offers built-in compliance templates and HR documents. These can help businesses stay on top of policies and legal requirements without starting from scratch.

Strengths

✅ Easy to use: BrightHR can be simple to set up and walk through. This can make it accessible if your business lacks HR expertise.

✅ Advice helpline: You can take advantage of a dedicated helpline. Through this helpline, you can have your HR and employment law questions answered by specialists.

‘It's a great communicative platform for employees and admin. It is extremely user friendly (big buttons and simple text). It's even fun to use.’

- Brienna, Business Manager

Weaknesses

❌ Functionality limitations: BrightHR's features don't quite stack up to those of more advanced HR software platforms.

❌ Basic scheduling: The scheduling tool can only do so much. Businesses with complicated shift patterns may find it insufficient.

❌ Holiday management gaps: The platform doesn't automatically include public holidays. It also doesn't carry over unused leave to the next year.

‘The rota and scheduling system is awful, convoluted, difficult to follow, set up and run. real step back from current software.’ 

- Martin, Business Director

4. Gusto

Capterra rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

Gusto is mainly a payroll platform with some light HR features added on. It’s built for small teams that want simple pay runs, onboarding, and basic people admin without getting tangled up in compliance. It can be a potential fit for micro businesses or those with under 50 staff. Pricing starts around AUD $120 per month, plus roughly AUD $18 per employee. So, it can be affordable if your team stays small.

The dashboard is clean and mostly easy to use on both desktop and mobile. It integrates with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, Slack, and Zapier. So, your payroll and accounting data can connect. Gusto offers support by phone, email, and chat, but it lines up with US business hours. This is something Aussies might find inconvenient. Gusto can be an okay fit for simple local needs. But once your team grows or you need automatic Modern Award interpretation, you’ll probably have to look elsewhere.

Specific HR needs Gusto caters to 

• Gusto payroll for employees and contractors, including automatic tax calculations and direct deposits.
• The system enables new hires to e-sign contracts and complete onboarding forms before day one.
• Gusto helps track paid leave and feeds those balances straight into payroll.
• The platform gives employees a self-service portal to view payslips, update details, and request time off.
• Gusto offers basic performance review templates to collect feedback and set goals.
• It sends compliance reminders for payroll filings and important deadlines.

Strengths

✅ Easy for beginners: Gusto’s layout is simple, so even if you’re new to HR software, it’s not too intimidating.

✅ Great for payroll: It has a focus on payroll. So, it can help with tax filings, direct deposits, and other essentials.

‘Overall, it's a fantastic and easy to use system with great referral opportunities. For a smaller business or start up, it's incredibly simple to get started and they will handle the majority of the concerns around taxes and reporting, which is crucial to ensure it is done correctly, as payroll can quickly become your biggest expense AND your biggest headache if you aren't set up for success.’

- Nolan, Real Estate Company Director

Weaknesses

❌ Not great for bigger teams: Once a business grows past 50–75 employees, Gusto may start to feel like it’s missing the mark.

❌ Time tracking is very basic: The tool only handles clocking in and out. It’s not built for things like complex scheduling or job costing.

❌ Lacks depth in HR features: Gusto is payroll-first, so there aren’t any comprehensive tools for recruiting, engagement, or training.

‘The setup is very manual with lots of limitations as far as importing reports or data. The time and attendance feature is VERY limited and it is obvious that it is geared toward small companies with few employees.’

- MF Patrick

5. Elmo

Capterra rating: 4.5/5 ⭐

Elmo is built for Aussie, Kiwi, and UK businesses. It pulls everything from onboarding and training to performance reviews into one system, letting you pick the features you need. It’s not the flashiest platform, but it can suit medium to large companies. They don’t list pricing online, but it’s generally on the pricier side. You’ll need a custom quote based on your team size and chosen modules.

The interface can feel clunky at first, but it does the job once you’re used to it. Elmo connects with platforms like Xero, SEEK, LinkedIn, Indeed, and BundyPlus. It also supports API and SFTP if you’ve got more complex systems. Support is Australia-based, available by phone and email during business hours, and you’ll usually get an account manager. They’re helpful, but response times can vary depending on your plan.

Specific HR needs Elmo caters to

• Elmo enables you to onboard new staff with digital forms and automated workflows.
• The platform’s learning management system lets you assign training, track completion, and store records in one place.
• The system has features that assist with goal setting and the running and tracking of performance reviews.
• The recruitment module helps you post jobs, manage applicants, and move people through the hiring process.
• Elmo stores employee records securely and lets you generate reports on things like turnover and leave.
• It also includes built-in compliance tools that help you stay in line with Fair Work and WHS requirements.

Strengths

✅ Australian-focused: Elmo's focus is on Australian businesses. Its features are designed with local business needs in mind.

✅ Customisation options. You can adjust some workflows to suit your specific needs.

‘ELMO provides you a platform to manage your daily HR operations through a system driven governed process. From on-boarding, recruitment, leave management, performance tracking and internal workflow management to handling employee exit.’

- Varun, Service Delivery Lead

Weaknesses

❌ Difficult to set up: Some users mention that the initial setup of Elmo can be a little bit headache inducing. It can consume precious time and be rather confusing.

❌ Feels underdeveloped: Businesses may feel that Elmo falls short on certain features. Some users also mention that it lacks the thoroughness seen in other HR platforms.

❌ No mobile app: Elmo doesn't have a mobile app. This can create on-the-go access limitations for users.

‘It does its job, but the user interface and functionality leave a lot to be desired.’

- Adam, Learning and Development Officer

6. Remote

Capterra rating: 4.4/5 ⭐

Remote is a global HR platform that helps Aussie businesses hire, pay, and manage people here and overseas. It pulls together onboarding, payroll, leave, and compliance in one place. Remote can be suitable for companies looking to grow beyond Australia. If you’re only running a local team with no global plans, it might be more power (and less local depth) than you need. Pricing starts at around AUD $18 per employee a month for basic HR tools.

The web app is clean and self-serve. Staff can check payslips and submit leave, while admins see payroll, compliance, and spend at a glance. It connects via Zapier and an open API to thousands of apps, but its native integrations are still lighter than Aussie-focused platforms. Support runs 24/5 through live chat in the app. There’s also AI help and ticket tracking.

Specific HR needs Remote caters to 

• Remote can help onboard employees with compliant contracts, digital document collection, and background checks.
• The platform tracks time off, attendance, and expenses through its built-in HR Core tools.
• It takes care of payroll and legal compliance in Australia, using its domestic entity. This includes local tax, superannuation, and public holidays.
• Remote makes it possible to pay and manage contractors globally. This includes automated classification workflows and international payments.
• The system can set up new legal entities, complete incorporation, and establish bank accounts with guided assistance in other countries.
• It offers immigration and visa support integrated into onboarding. This includes visa sponsorship and relocation support.

Strengths

✅ Built for global teams: Remote is made for businesses growing their workforce across borders. It can take care of payroll, benefits, and compliance in many countries.

✅ Great for contractors: Its handling of compliance and payments can make working with international contractors easier.

‘The collaboration with remote is very smooth and helps our business a lot as it allows us to hire people globally. Our account manager, Florian, is super fast in responding, always friendly and helpful. The tool is easy to use, intuitive and has a modern design.’

- Wiebke, Head of HR

Weaknesses

❌ Onboarding delays: Some users say that getting new employees or contractors set up takes longer than would have liked.

❌ Disjointed information: The platform can feel a bit scattered at times. This can make finding what you need more sluggish than it should be.

❌ Slow access to country-specific labour law details: Users say that it sometimes takes a while to get accurate information about a country’s labour laws. This can cause delays when managing international teams.

‘As Remote manages onboarding processes across different countries, it may take longer than expected, especially if legal complexities or unexpected regulatory challenges arise. Slower onboarding than initially anticipated. No customised set up for contract signatures, support response times can be slow, especially for time-sensitive issues.’

- Christine, Senior HR Supervisor

7. UKG Pro

Capterra rating: 4.3/5 ⭐

UKG Pro is a full-scale HR and workforce platform built for big, complex organisations. It manages payroll, onboarding, time tracking, performance, and compliance. UKG Pro is set up to deal with Aussie needs like award rules and Fair Work regulations. It can suit mid to large businesses, especially if you’ve got hundreds of staff, layered approvals, and tricky rosters. Pricing is aimed at the enterprise end, based on your size and chosen modules. It’s not a fit if you’re looking for something cheap and simple.

The interface does the job but isn’t the slickest around. Most teams need training to use it properly. It connects with payroll, ERP, and learning systems, plus offers API access for custom setups. Many integrations need your IT team or consultants to sort out, though. Support in Australia comes by phone, email, and a client portal. Bigger clients often get an account manager. Everyday support is fine for basic questions and fixes. But if you need to set the system up or customise it heavily, you’ll usually need specialist help.

Specific HR needs UKG Pro caters to 

• UKG Pro takes care of end-to-end payroll with compliance features that support Australian tax and super obligations.
• The platform tracks time, attendance, and rostered hours with built-in award interpretation and automation.
• It supports digital onboarding, with tools to handle contracts, compliance forms, and induction steps.
• UKG Pro helps with recruitment by managing job listings, applications, and interview pipelines in one place.
• The system offers performance management features, such as reviews, goals, and employee feedback cycles.
• It delivers real-time dashboards and workforce analytics to help track costs, trends, and risks across your organisation.

Strengths

✅ Comprehensive HR toolkit: UKG Pro merges local payroll, workforce management, and talent development in one all-encompassing platform.

✅ Customisation options: The software offers high-level customisation. You can tailor the system to fit your specific business workflows. 

‘We’ve had a great experience with UKG overall. I appreciate that the system helps our department play a bigger role in shaping the organization, giving us the tools and insights to be a real strategic partner.’

- Jessica, HR Director

Weaknesses

❌ Security concerns: A cyber attack on a UKG product in 2021 raised questions about data security. There are likely extra security measures in place now. But it's still worth thinking about.

❌ Support delays for smaller businesses: Some smaller clients have mentioned that they waited longer than they'd have liked to for help.

❌ Complex reporting: Some users find the reporting tools clunky to use. This can make accessing certain insights quite annoying.

‘Ever since the merge between Ultimate and Kronos group, the service and support model has not been where I'd like to see it. Lots of promises about focus in this area, but yet to see anything come to fruition. Some of the modules UX/UI need improvement and updating - can be a bit clunky.’

- Simon, Senior Vice President People and Culture

8. SAP SuccessFactors

Capterra rating: 4.0/5 ⭐

SAP SuccessFactors is a full-scale HR and payroll platform built for big companies with complex needs. It can handle everything from hiring and onboarding to payroll, performance, and workforce planning in one system. It’s made to manage loads of data, layered approvals, and teams spread across different countries. It’s best for businesses with strict compliance, specialised HR processes, and a need to keep HR, finance, and operations tightly linked. Pricing is all custom and firmly in the enterprise bracket. So, it’s usually not worth it for small or mid-sized companies.

The interface is consistent, but opinions are split. Some find it straightforward once they’re used to it, others think payroll and reporting are (always) clunky. It connects with other SAP tools and supports APIs and middleware to link up outside systems. In Australia, SAP partners handle the setup, custom tweaks, and ongoing support. Help typically comes through phone, email, and online tickets, with availability depending on your contract.

Specific HR needs SAP SuccessFactors caters to 

• SAP SuccessFactors manages core HR data and digital employee records in one central system.
• The system automates payroll processing. This includes retroactive calculations, off-cycle runs, and embedded compliance in many countries.
• It enables employees to request leave or submit timesheets via web, mobile, or terminal, complete with approval workflows and absence tracking.
• SAP SuccessFactors offers recruitment, onboarding, learning, performance, and succession modules.
• The platform stores contracts, policies, and other HR documents securely, with retention rules and full-text search.
• It delivers pre-built analytics dashboards and people insights to help with workforce planning and strategic decision-making.

Strengths

✅ Feature-rich: SAP SuccessFactors covers many aspects of HR in one platform.

✅ Focus on data: Its workforce analytics can help you dig into HR data. This can help you uncover patterns and improve decision-making.

‘Overall, the SAP HCM software is great and is highly sophisticated when it comes to advanced reporting and metrics. The program, initially, is not the most user-friendly, however once users become proficient, it’s a highly advanced and multi-functional system which I would recommend.’

- Verified LinkedIn User

Weaknesses

❌ Complex setup: SuccessFactors has a reputation for being tricky to set up and use. Many businesses end up needing IT resources or external consultants to come to the rescue. This can push costs up.

❌ Limited customisation: The platform has lots of functionality, but some feel it scrimps on customisation.

❌ Extra tools for analytics: Businesses may need to splash out on extra tools. This is especially true for data visualisation or business intelligence.

‘The user interface is very old fashioned and navigation within the program to find correct functions and features is really hard.’

- Verified LinkedIn User

Why Australian businesses need HR software 

In Australia, there's a lot more to running a business than just delivering great products or services. There's a maze of employment laws and regulations that you need to navigate as well. 

Complying with these laws and regulations is a non-negotiable. They're there to protect your workers. And failing to adhere to them, even if by mistake, can lead to penalties, fines, back pay claims, unhappy employees, and reputational damage. 

Some of the main regulations to be aware of are:

• Fair Work Act 2009: Covers wages, hours, leave, and unfair dismissal.
• National Employment Standards (NES): Mandates 11 minimum entitlements. These can include annual and personal leave.
• Modern Awards: Cover pay rates, conditions, and allowances specific to certain industries.
• Superannuation Guarantee (SG): Mandates obligatory super contributions for employees.
• WHS regulations: Ensures safe and healthy workplaces.
• Privacy Act 1988: Protects employee data.
• Migration Act 1958: Governs visa requirements for foreign workers.

And that's just if your business employs a local workforce. If you have teams across borders or are planning future global expansion, there's a lot more to get your head around.

With innovative HR software on your side, managing all of this can become a much easier process. 

Top benefits of HR software

For small to medium-sized and enterprise Australian businesses, the right HR software can be hugely impactful. Below, you can find some of the major benefits:

• Stay compliant without the stress. Modern HR software can calculate award rates automatically, helping you comply with Fair Work Act requirements. It can help you avoid fines, back pay claims, and other compliance issues.
• Save time on admin tasks. It can take care of repetitive HR processes like payroll management, onboarding, and leave tracking. This frees up your team to focus on growing the business.
• Reduce costly errors. Automation enables more accurate handling of payroll, leave balances, and tax reporting. You can minimise mistakes that would otherwise take time and money to fix.
• Engage your employees. Self-service portals give employees control over tasks like checking payslips or updating personal details. It can be fast, easy, and improve employee satisfaction.
• Keep everything in one place. HR software stores contracts, performance records, and employee data in a safe and central place. You’ll never have to dig through files again.
• Simplify hiring and onboarding. The system can make job posting, application tracking, and new hire onboarding so much easier. This can mean a faster and more organised recruitment process.
• Grow without the hassle. Great HR software can grow alongside your business. It can help you manage a growing team without complicating things.
• Make smarter decisions. Analytics and reporting tools can give you an overview of workforce trends and performance. You can use this data to plan and make good decisions for the future.

Essential features to consider in HR management software

Before committing to HR software, you need to make sure it can work for your team, your business' goals, and the way you operate. Here are a few of the important features to look out for:

• Compliance specific to Australian labour laws: Keeping up with Australian employment laws is a full-time job. The right HR software should simplify things by automating award rate changes, flagging compliance risks, and keeping you updated on Fair Work and NES rules.
• Payroll integration: Good HR software should calculate super at the right rate, deduct the correct PAYG tax, and automatically sync with your time tracking. This can save you from having to fix pay errors or chase missing entitlements after payday.
• Performance management: Look for HR software that enables managers to set quarterly KPIs, track them in real time, and give feedback during regular check-ins. That beats waiting for a once-a-year review when it’s too late to course correct!
• Recruitment and onboarding: The software should let you post roles to various job boards, track applications, and auto-send contracts once someone’s hired. Bonus if it sets them up with payroll and super before their first day.

How to evaluate the best HR software for your business

Picking the right HR software can feel like a big decision. And it should, because it is. But breaking it down into a few important steps to tackle one by one can make the process a lot less scary. Here’s what to focus on when evaluating the best HR software for your business:

1. Assess business size and needs: A 10-person team doesn’t need the same features as a company with 200 staff across five locations. List your must-haves, like payroll, onboarding, or compliance, so you only pay for what solves the actual problems your business faces.
2. Evaluate scalability: Consider if the software that can handle more staff, locations, or compliance rules without coming apart at the seams. If you plan to hire interstate or overseas, the platform should be able to scale without extra bolt-ons.
3. Check the budget fit: Some HR tools charge per employee, while others add fees for implementation, modules, or support. Run the numbers so you know what it’ll cost now and as your team grows.
4. Pay attention to the user interface: If it takes 10 clicks to approve leave or find a payslip, staff probably won’t want to use it. The interface should be simple, modern, and built for non-technical users.
5. Consider integrations: Make sure the software connects easily with your payroll, accounting software, time tracking, and scheduling tools. This can cut down manual entry and keep your data in sync.
6. Review customer feedback: Check reviews and forums to see what real users love and where they’ve run into issues. If you spot repeated complaints about glitches or slow support, for example, consider it a warning sign.
7. Investigate support options: Look for live chat, phone support, and help docs that actually explain things in a way that can be understood. If you’re based in Australia, make sure you can reach someone during local business hours.

Accelerate every part of your business with Rippling’s HR software

What really makes Rippling the best isn’t just that it combines HR, payroll, and IT. It’s how effortlessly it does it. Everything’s linked, so there’s no messy double entry or data going astray. You can onboard someone, set up their payroll, give them access to apps and devices, and track their goals. You can also manage time tracking, headcount planning, and surveys. And all from the same spot!

It’s also one of the few platforms built to handle both Aussie rules and global hiring properly. That means it sorts out super, STP, and award rates here, while also managing tax and compliance all around the world. As your team grows, you don’t have to switch systems or tack on extra tools. Rippling simply scales with you. 

In short: it takes care of the heavy lifting, cuts down admin, and gives you more time to actually run your business. 

Our methodology for ranking the best HR software

We’ve tested these platforms ourselves, rolled them out for clients, and watched how they work day-to-day for Australian businesses. We also looked at real user feedback, local search trends, and recent updates. 

None of these inclusions are paid. Rippling topped the list because it’s the strongest mix of HR, payroll, and IT, especially for fast-growing local and global teams. We update this guide twice a year so it stays current and based on what actually works, not just what looks good on paper.

HR software FAQs

What are the three top HRIS systems?

There are plenty of HRIS systems to choose from, but a few stand out from the rest. Rippling is a top pick because it combines HR, payroll, IT, and finance into one unified platform. It’s especially great for businesses that want global payroll and compliance tools alongside everything else. 

Other options can include BambooHR for its focus on simplicity and SAP SuccessFactors for businesses needing comprehensive enterprise-level tools.

What are the five types of HRIS systems?

HRIS systems are typically split into five main categories:

1. Operational HR systems: These focus on day-to-day tasks like payroll, time tracking, and leave management.
2. Strategic HR systems: These help with long-term planning, like performance management and workforce analytics.
3. Integrated HR systems: These are platforms that bring multiple HR functions (like payroll and recruitment) into one place.
4. Global HR systems: These help companies managing employees and contractors in different countries.
5. Cloud-based HR systems: These systems are accessed online, so your team can log in from anywhere.

How much does HR software cost?

There's no black and white answer to this question. How much HR software costs can vary a lot. It depends on the provider and what your business needs. Some platforms charge per employee, while others use feature-based pricing. 

For example, Rippling has modular pricing. This means you only pay for the features you actually use.

Is HR software secure for managing employee data?

Good HR software usually takes security seriously. Most platforms use encryption and other security features to keep the important stuff safe. For example, Rippling uses industry-standard security protocols to protect personal and payroll data. Still, it’s always smart to ask providers about their security measures before signing on the dotted line.

Can HR software help with Fair Work compliance?

Yes, it can. Some HR software has what it takes to help you with Australia’s web of employment laws. Rippling, for instance, automates many award rate calculations and aces tax compliance. It also keeps you updated on changes to the Fair Work Act, so you’re always in the know. 

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.