HR Management

Breathe HR Alternatives: Simple HR Systems That Save Time And Money

Wraps up in 15 Minutes

Author: Gavin Altus

Published On March 16, 2026

Managing people is great until it’s not. One minute you’re growing a dream team, the next you’re juggling spreadsheets, leave requests, and compliance, and wondering if HR can be done any easier.

If you’ve been using Breathe HR, you already know it’s a solid option for small businesses. It’s user-friendly, affordable, and gets the job done.

But here’s the thing: as your business grows or your needs change, you might find yourself wanting more features, better Australian compliance support, or simply a system that feels less… clunky.

The good news? Australia’s HR software market is absolutely booming with alternatives that’ll save you time, money, and probably a few headaches along the way.

Whether you’re after beefier reporting, seamless payroll integration, or just want to try before you buy, we’ve rounded up the best Breathe HR alternatives for Australian businesses.

Grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into what’s out there.

Why Look for Breathe HR Alternatives?

Breathe HR has earned its stripes as a dependable HR platform for small to medium businesses.

According to verified reviews on Capterra and GetApp, users consistently praise its ease of use and straightforward approach to leave management and document storage.

But no software is perfect and Breathe has a few quirks that might have you looking elsewhere.

Here’s what users are saying:

Limited Reporting Capabilities: Multiple reviews mention that Breathe’s reporting functions aren’t as robust as competitors. If you need detailed analytics or custom reports, you might hit a wall. One verified reviewer noted, “The report functionality isn’t great… not having version control and a log of version controls for documents is also annoying.”
Price Increases and Feature Restrictions: Some long-term users report significant price jumps. One customer stated they experienced a 57% price increase over 2 years, prompting them to search for more cost-effective options with better functionality.
Data Migration Challenges: When it’s time to move on, getting your data out can be painful. As one reviewer discovered, “They have no data transfer software, so all our files/documents have to be manually downloaded for every employee”. Yikes.
Australian Compliance Gaps: While Breathe works in Australia, it’s not built specifically for the Australian market. This means features like Fair Work compliance, award interpretation, and Single Touch Payroll (STP) integration might not be as seamless as locally designed alternatives.
Basic Performance Management: If you’re looking for advanced performance tracking, goal setting, or employee engagement tools, Breathe might feel a bit bare bones.

Don’t get us wrong – Breathe HR is perfectly fine for many businesses. But if any of these pain points resonate with you, it’s worth exploring what else is out there.

Top Breathe HR Alternatives for Australian Businesses

We’ve done the heavy lifting and compiled a list of the best HR systems that understand the Australian business landscape.

Each platform has its strengths, so you can pick one that aligns with your specific needs.

1. Sentrient: Best Australian-Built Alternative for Compliance

If you’re looking for an HR system that really understands Australian business, Sentrient should be on your shortlist.

This isn’t just a generic platform with a local domain; it’s built specifically for Australian and New Zealand businesses, and over 600 organisations are already on board.

Why Sentrient Stands Out:

Sentrient combines HR management with compliance and governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) capabilities in a single platform.

This makes it perfect for businesses that need to stay on top of workplace safety regulations, policy management, and Australian employment law.

What you get:

Pre-loaded compliance courses covering Australian workplace safety, privacy laws, and discrimination regulations

Automated compliance tracking with audit-ready reports
Full employee lifecycle management from recruitment to performance reviews
Document management with version control (something Breathe users specifically miss)
Integration with popular Australian payroll systems like Xero and MYOB
Employee self-service portal that puts control in your team’s hands
Performance management tools, including goal tracking and staff surveys

Pricing: Sentrient offers transparent, affordable pricing starting at $5 per user per month for compliance management, $10 per user per month for HR management, and $7 per user per month for GRC.

That’s considerably cheaper than many competitors while offering more Australian-specific features.

Best for: Small to medium Australian businesses that need strong compliance features, easy scalability, and don’t want to mess around with complex setups.

According to verified GetApp reviews, users particularly love how “easy to use, highly functional” the platform is, and how responsive the Sentrient team is.

2. Employment Hero: Comprehensive All-in-One Platform

Employment Hero is the powerhouse of Australian HR software. With over 200,000 organisations using it to manage more than 1 million employees, it’s one of the most established players in the market.

What sets it apart: Employment Hero bundles HR, payroll, benefits, and employee engagement into a single platform.

It’s designed specifically for Australian businesses with built-in STP Phase 2 compliance and award interpretation.

Key features:

Native integration with Xero, MYOB, and KeyPay
Comprehensive reporting on turnover rates, surveys, and 1:1 meetings
A recruitment function that allows multiple stakeholders in the hiring process
Employee wellness and benefits platform

The catch: It can take time to set up, especially if you’re migrating from multiple systems. Also, pricing starts around $10 per employee per month, making it pricier than some alternatives.

Best for: Medium to large Australian businesses that want a full-featured platform and don’t mind investing time in setup for long-term gains.

3. BambooHR – User-Friendly Global Platform

BambooHR is a globally recognised HR platform that’s won awards for its intuitive interface and comprehensive features.

It’s particularly popular among small to medium businesses looking for something reliable and relatively simple to use.

Strengths:

Exceptional onboarding and offboarding workflows
Applicant tracking system (ATS) built in
E-signatures for contracts and documents
Customisable reports and strong analytics
Mobile app for on-the-go management

The downside: BambooHR doesn’t have built-in Australian payroll. You’ll need to integrate with third-party payroll systems, which can be clunky.

Pricing is also quote-based, depending on headcount, so it might be less budget-friendly for very small teams.

Best for: Businesses scaling quickly who want polished onboarding and don’t mind handling payroll separately.

4. ELMO Software: Scalable Cloud HR Solution

ELMO is one of the award-winning Australian cloud HR solutions that’s been helping businesses streamline their people and pay processes for years.

It’s designed to handle the full employee lifecycle with ISO-certified solutions.

Highlights:

Comprehensive suite covering recruitment, learning, performance, and payroll
Strong analytics and reporting capabilities
Designed to scale with your organisation
Operates across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK

Best for: Growing businesses and larger organisations that need robust analytics and a comprehensive, scalable solution.

5. BrightHR: Affordable with Built-In Advisory

BrightHR brings something unique to the table: unlimited HR and employment law advice from qualified experts, available 24/7.

This makes it invaluable for small businesses without dedicated HR teams.

Features:

Integrated Learning Management System with HR and health & safety courses
BrightAdvice for on-demand expert HR support
Bright Brainbox AI tool for quick HR question answers
Free online marketplace for employee benefits and perks

Best for: Small businesses that want HR software plus access to professional HR advice without hiring a full-time HR manager.

6. EnableHR: Compliance-Focused Legal Support

If compliance keeps you up at night, EnableHR might be your answer. This Australian platform specialises in employment law compliance with built-in legal advisory support.

Best for: Businesses in highly regulated industries or those who want legal peace of mind with every HR decision.

7. HiBob: Culture and Engagement Focused

HiBob is a modern HR platform designed for mid-sized, culture-focused teams. It emphasises employee engagement and people management rather than just admin tasks.

Note: No built-in Australian payroll or award interpretation. It works best when integrated with existing payroll systems.

Best for: Companies that want to build a strong workplace culture and already have payroll sorted.

8. HappyHR: Budget-Friendly Expert Support

Starting at just $8 per user per month, HappyHR offers tremendous value by combining comprehensive software with free HR advisory services from qualified HR consultants.

Best for: Small businesses on tight budgets that still want access to expert HR guidance.

Other Notable Alternatives Worth Considering

Sage HR: Starting at $5.50 per user per month, Sage HR is one of the most affordable options with 24/7 support and customisation for multiple countries.
WorkIt: An Australian solution focused on workforce management and rostering, particularly useful for industries like healthcare and hospitality.
Breezy HR: Primarily a recruitment platform but offers some HR management features for growing teams.
Rippling: An all-in-one platform combining HR, IT, and finance. Perfect for tech companies or businesses expanding globally.
Citation HR: Offers HR support with compliance assistance, particularly strong in workplace health and safety.
Wageloch: Australian payroll and HR solution with strong award interpretation capabilities.

How to Choose the Right HR System for Your Australian Business

With so many options, picking the right HR software can feel overwhelming. Here’s a practical framework to help you decide:

1. Define Your Must-Have Features

Start by listing what you absolutely need. Is it payroll integration? Compliance tracking? Performance management? Recruitment tools? Don’t get distracted by fancy features you’ll never use.

2. Consider Australian Compliance Requirements

Make sure your chosen platform handles Fair Work compliance, superannuation, and Single Touch Payroll.

Platforms built specifically for Australia (like Sentrient, Employment Hero, and EnableHR) will save you countless headaches.

3. Think About Scalability

If you’re planning to grow, choose software that can scale with you. Platforms like Sentrient and ELMO are designed to add features and users as your business expands, so you won’t need to switch systems down the track.

4. Test Before You Commit

Most platforms offer free trials or demos. Use them! Get your team involved and test the actual workflows you’ll use daily. A platform might look great on paper but feel clunky in practice.

5. Factor In Total Cost

Look beyond the monthly subscription. Consider setup costs, training time, integration fees, and potential add-ons.

Sometimes, a slightly pricier platform saves money in the long run by including features others charge extra for.

6. Check Integration Capabilities

If you’re already using accounting software like Xero or MYOB, make sure your HR platform integrates seamlessly with it. This eliminates double data entry and reduces errors.

7. Read Real Australian Reviews

Don’t rely solely on marketing materials. Check verified reviews on platforms like Capterra, GetApp, and G2. Look specifically for Australian users to see how the system performs in your market.

Why Sentrient is the Smart Choice for Most Australian Businesses

While we’ve covered plenty of excellent alternatives, if we had to recommend one platform that ticks most boxes for Australian SMEs, it’d be Sentrient.

Here’s why:

Built for Australia: Unlike imported platforms, Sentrient understands Australian compliance requirements from the ground up. Fair Work, superannuation, workplace safety – it’s all baked in.
Transparent, Affordable Pricing: Starting at $5-$10 per user per month, you get exceptional value without hidden costs or surprise price hikes.
Quick Implementation: Sentrient can be deployed in minutes, not weeks. No complex configurations or lengthy training required.
All-in-One Solution: You get HR, compliance, and GRC in one platform. This means fewer integrations, less admin, and a single source of truth for your people data.
Exceptional Support: Verified reviews consistently mention how responsive and helpful the Sentrient team is. When you hit a snag, you get real people who care, not automated chatbots.
Scales With You: Whether you’re a 10-person startup or a 200-employee business, Sentrient grows alongside you without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: Making the Switch

Switching HR systems might feel like a big undertaking, but staying with software that doesn’t quite fit your needs costs you more in the long run – in time, money, and frustration.

The Australian HR software market is competitive, giving you genuine choice.

Whether you prioritise affordability (HappyHR, Sage HR), comprehensive features (Employment Hero, ELMO), or Australian-built compliance excellence (Sentrient, EnableHR), there’s a platform that fits your business.

Our recommendation? Start with Sentrient.

Book a free demo, test it out with your actual workflows, and see if it solves your pain points.

If it doesn’t tick all your boxes, you’ve got a whole list of solid alternatives to explore.

Remember: the best HR system is the one your team will use. So, pick something intuitive, scalable, and built with Australian businesses in mind. Your future self (and your team) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best HR software for small businesses in Australia?

The best HR software for small Australian businesses should handle payroll, STP reporting, and award compliance automatically while remaining affordable. Cloud-based solutions like Sentrient, HappyHR, and Sage HR offer comprehensive features at competitive prices. Sentrient is particularly well-suited for small businesses as it combines Australian compliance features with a user-friendly design and starts at just $5 per user per month.

2. Is Breathe HR good for Australian companies?

Breathe HR is a user-friendly platform that works in Australia, but it’s not built specifically for the Australian market. This means that some Australian-specific features, such as Fair Work compliance, award interpretation, and seamless Single Touch Payroll integration, may require workarounds or third-party integrations. For businesses that need robust Australian compliance support, locally designed alternatives like Sentrient or Employment Hero may be better choices.

3. What features should I look for in HR software?

Essential features include employee database management, leave and absence tracking, payroll integration (or built-in payroll), compliance management, document storage, performance management tools, and employee self-service portals. For Australian businesses, ensure the software handles Single Touch Payroll, superannuation, Fair Work compliance, and award interpretation. Scalability and good integration with existing accounting software (like Xero or MYOB) are also important considerations.

4. How much does HR software typically cost in Australia?

HR software pricing in Australia varies widely based on features and company size. Budget-friendly options like Sage HR and HappyHR start around $5-8 per user per month. Mid-range solutions like Sentrient cost $10 per user per month for HR management. Comprehensive platforms like Employment Hero and ELMO typically start around $10-15 per user per month. Enterprise solutions like Workday are quote-based and generally more expensive. Always factor in implementation costs, training, and any required add-ons when comparing prices.

5. Can HR software integrate with Xero or MYOB?

Yes, many modern HR platforms integrate with Xero and MYOB. Sentrient, Employment Hero, BambooHR, and most Australian-focused HR systems offer native integrations with these popular accounting platforms. These integrations eliminate double data entry and ensure seamless synchronisation between your HR and accounting systems. Always verify integration quality and any associated costs before committing to a platform.

6. Do all HR platforms offer proper Single Touch Payroll (STP) compliance?

No, not all HR platforms offer proper STP compliance. Many require separate software or manual processes for ATO reporting. Look for systems that automatically generate and submit STP reports as part of your normal payroll process, without additional fees or manual intervention. Australian-built platforms like Employment Hero, Sentrient, and ELMO typically include robust STP Phase 2 compliance features.

7. How long does it take to implement HR software?

Implementation time varies based on business size and HR complexity. Simple platforms like Sentrient can be deployed in minutes to days for small businesses. More complex systems like Employment Hero or ELMO may take weeks to months, especially if migrating from multiple legacy systems. Proper planning, clean data migration, and adequate training are crucial for successful implementation. Most vendors offer onboarding support to streamline the process.

8. Can HR software help with recruitment?

Yes, many HR software platforms include recruitment features such as applicant tracking, interview scheduling, and onboarding workflows. BambooHR, Employment Hero, Sentrient, and HiBob all offer recruitment management capabilities. These tools streamline the hiring process by helping you post jobs, manage candidates, schedule interviews, and onboard new employees efficiently. For businesses with heavy recruitment needs, dedicated ATS platforms like Breezy HR may offer more specialised features.

9. What is the difference between HR software and HRIS?

HR software is a broad term covering any digital tool that helps manage human resources functions. HRIS (Human Resource Information System) refers specifically to a centralised database that stores and manages employee data. In practice, modern HR software platforms typically include HRIS functionality, along with additional features such as payroll, performance management, and recruitment. The terms are often used interchangeably, but HRIS emphasises data management.

10. Is cloud-based HR software secure?

Yes, reputable cloud-based HR software like Sentrient uses advanced encryption methods to protect sensitive employee and customer data. Modern platforms employ enterprise-grade security features, including data encryption in transit and at rest, regular security audits, role-based access controls, and compliance with global data protection frameworks such as SOC 2 and ISO 27001. Cloud-based systems are typically more secure than traditional on-premise solutions and offer better disaster recovery capabilities.

Disclaimer

This blog post provides general information about HR software alternatives for Australian businesses based on publicly available data and verified user reviews as of February 2026. While we’ve made every effort to ensure accuracy, software features, pricing, and capabilities change frequently. We recommend conducting your own research, requesting demos, and consulting with the software providers directly before making any purchasing decisions.