Choosing an invoice tool as an Australian freelancer is not just about aesthetics. You need ABN validation, correct GST handling, and ATO-compliant output. Here is an honest comparison of the main free options available in 2026.
What to look for in a free invoice tool
Before comparing tools, here are the key criteria for Australian freelancers:
- ABN field and validation: Your ABN must appear on every invoice. Ideally, the tool validates it using the ATO algorithm.
- GST calculation: Must handle Australian 10% GST correctly, including both inclusive and exclusive pricing.
- Correct invoice/tax invoice format: The tool should switch between “Invoice” and “Tax Invoice” based on GST status.
- PDF export: The output should be a clean, professional PDF your clients will trust.
- No signup for basic use: Ideal for freelancers who need an occasional invoice without committing to a platform.
AusInvoice
Best for: Australian sole traders and freelancers who want a fast, correct invoice without setup overhead.
AusInvoice is the only tool on this list built specifically for Australia. ABN validation uses the real ATO checksum algorithm. GST calculation supports inclusive and exclusive pricing with a single toggle. The PDF output includes all ATO-required fields for a valid tax invoice. No signup is needed for the first 3 invoices.
Free plan: 3 invoices/month with a small watermark. Pro: $9/month for unlimited invoices, no watermark, saved clients.
Rounded
Best for: Australian freelancers who want invoicing plus basic business management.
Rounded is an Australian-built all-in-one freelance business tool covering invoicing, expenses, and reporting. It supports ABN and GST correctly. The free plan is limited (1 active project), and it requires account creation. Invoicing is good but the focus is on the broader business management features. Starts at around $15/month for full access.
Xero Invoice Generator (xero.com/au/invoice-templates)
Best for: Businesses already using Xero, or those wanting a free one-off invoice.
Xero's free standalone invoice generator is basic but functional. It supports ABN and GST fields and downloads as a PDF. The limitation is that it is a standalone tool with no connection to Xero's accounting platform unless you have a paid subscription. Good for occasional use; not suitable for ongoing invoicing management.
Billdu
Best for: Small businesses wanting a polished app with mobile support.
Billdu is a global invoicing platform with Australian-specific features. The free plan allows 5 invoices total (not per month), which is limiting. It has good templates and a mobile app. GST support is present but requires configuration. Paid plans start around $6/month.
PayCal
Best for: Freelancers wanting payment processing integrated with invoicing.
PayCal combines invoicing with integrated payment links (similar to Stripe or Square). Useful if you want clients to pay online via credit card rather than bank transfer. The invoicing is functional but the focus is on payment processing. Fees apply for card payments.
Which tool should you use?
For most Australian freelancers and sole traders who need a quick, correct, free invoice: AusInvoice is the best starting point. It requires no signup, has the strictest Australian compliance features, and produces a professional PDF immediately.
If you want integrated accounting, time tracking, and project management: Rounded is the best Australian-built option. Xero is better suited to businesses that will grow into its full accounting capabilities.