Global small business platform Xero has today announced a new partnership with Qantas Business Rewards, the company's first time collaborating with an airline.

The partnership enables Australian small businesses to be rewarded from their day-to-day operations in new ways by earning Qantas Points through the Xero App Store as well as streamlining their bills when booking Qantas flights.

“Through this partnership, our first with an airline, we're providing additional benefits for using technology and apps that can help you run your business better, all while making admin easier,” Xero Australia and Asia managing director Joseph Lyons says.

“Whether you're on the ground or up in the air, we can't wait to bring these new rewards to Australian small businesses.

Earning Qantas Points through the Xero App Store

Xero's App Store offers ways for small businesses to customise their own online accounting system to fit their unique business needs.

Now, customers can be rewarded for taking their operations to the next level via Qantas Business Rewards.

From today, Xero customers and Qantas Business Rewards members can earn between 7,000 and 21,000 Qantas Points when signing up for selected Xero certified app partners via the Xero App Store.

This includes ServiceM8, ApprovalMax, Chaser, Syft, EzzyBills, Finlert and Deputy, with more certified app partners to be added in the future.

Xero says that once a customer is subscribed, they will receive Qantas Points after being connected to the app for 90 days.

The company says Qantas Points earned can be used on flights, hotels, Qantas Wine and over 8,000 products from the Qantas Rewards Store for either business or personal use.

Streamline travel with Xero Connect

The companies say this new integration between Qantas's Business Rewards and Xero's Connect will make it easier for customers to manage their bills when travelling.

With this integration, Qantas Business Rewards members can automatically have their bills feed straight into a nominated Xero account when booking a Qantas flight.

When using Xero Connect, invoices flow automatically into a Xero account, eliminating manual data entry and saving time on admin.

Xero says this is a much faster, more straightforward and accurate way to receive supplier invoices and is cost-effective for small businesses.

For small businesses who aren't members, Qantas Business Rewards is waiving the AU$89.50 sign up fee for Xero customers.

In addition, Qantas adds that customers can easily access Xero Connect once logged in to Qantas Business Rewards.

“The Qantas Business Rewards program is focused on helping members do business better, all while being rewarded for it,” Qantas Loyalty CEO Olivia Wirth says.

“In partnership with Xero, we're giving business owners new ways to grow their points balances when using business apps in the Xero App Store.

“It's now easier for businesses to manage their travel with Qantas, with invoices flowing directly into Xero accounting software.

“We know this is something our members will appreciate as business travel picks up in the coming months.