HI mistyben
I hear you!. I, like yourself, I have promoted and recommended MYOB since 2001. I was an authorised reseller, but preferred to have them purchase their own directly, rather than through me. I also don't run my business to profit from software recommendations (even though I also run a computer store). I suspect that MYOB have earned literally thousands of dollars from my recommendations over the years. There is really no reason for them to stop allowing bookkeepers to use old MYOB. I also know many accountants who ask me to assist when they have a client bring in an old MYOB v18 file or similar.
I also agree that the online version of MYOB has shortfalls; many, many shortfalls!
It is unfortunate that you use the MYOB payroll offering for the client with payroll as there is totally legal 3rd party software that will suck the STP figures out of any MYOB file and report directly to the ATO. MYOB tried to shut it down at the start, but I suspect that someone advised MYOB that using 3rd party software with MYOB is actually NOT illegal. It is STP Creator by Namich Software. It was developed in conjuction with Michael from FGH tables I believe.. South Australian business for Australians! Very reasonable price and I had one client with about 250 complex pay employees who loved it.
The FGH tables company also supply a confirmation tool for MYOB. FGH are careful to ensure that they only supply genuine users like yourself and I. We have a valid license agreement that is not being honoured by MYOB. They refuse to sell to anyone they think is just trying to use a pirate copy of MYOB. I recommend them highly to assist you in December.
cheers
Liz