Technology

Database Migration Services
for Australian businesses.

Oracle to PostgreSQL. SQL Server to cloud. MySQL version upgrade. Access to a proper database. We migrate databases with minimal downtime and validated data integrity.

Schema conversion, data migration, application layer updates, and post-migration support.

Get a Migration Assessment See Migration Types
  • AU-built Australian owned and operated
  • Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQL Stack we work with daily
  • Validated Data Integrity New builds + modernisation
  • Fixed Price scopes, no surprises
Database Migration

Your database should not be the thing holding the business back

Databases are invisible infrastructure, until they are a problem. Expensive Oracle licensing eating the IT budget. End-of-life SQL Server version that cannot be patched. Access database corrupting because three people are using it at once. Self-hosted server that nobody knows how to maintain.

Database migration is technical, risky, and requires precision. Data integrity is non-negotiable. Schema conversion needs to be complete. The application layer needs to work with the new database. And ideally, the migration happens with minimal downtime.

We migrate databases between platforms (Oracle → PostgreSQL, SQL Server → PostgreSQL, MySQL → PostgreSQL), upgrade database versions, move databases to the cloud, and replace Microsoft Access with proper database solutions.

Database migration with schema conversion, data validation, and minimal downtime cutover
Migration Types

Database migration services: by type

Platform migration, version upgrades, cloud migration, Access replacement, and data consolidation.

Database Platform Migration

Moving from one database platform to another. Oracle to PostgreSQL. SQL Server to PostgreSQL. MySQL to PostgreSQL. Access to SQL Server. Or any combination. The motivations are usually licensing costs, vendor lock-in, or cloud strategy.

We handle schema conversion, data type mapping, stored procedure translation, query compatibility, and application layer changes. Triggers, views, functions, and indexes are all migrated. Data integrity is validated row-by-row and column-by-column.

The application layer needs attention too. ORMs like Entity Framework, Hibernate, or Eloquent abstract some differences, but raw SQL queries, stored procedure calls, and database-specific features need updating. We handle both the database and the application changes.

Database Version Upgrades

Running an old version of PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, or MongoDB? End-of-life database versions do not receive security patches. Newer versions offer performance improvements, new features, and continued vendor support.

PostgreSQL 12 (EOL November 2024), MySQL 5.7 (EOL October 2023), SQL Server 2014 (EOL July 2024), MongoDB 4.4 (EOL February 2024). If you are on any of these, the clock has already run out.

We upgrade in a staging environment, test application compatibility, validate queries, benchmark performance, and then execute the production upgrade with a rollback plan. Downtime is minimised. Most upgrades can be done with minutes of downtime using replication.

On-Premises → Cloud Database Migration

Self-hosted database on a server in the office or data centre moved to a managed cloud service. Azure SQL, AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, Azure Cosmos DB, or AWS Aurora. Managed services handle patching, backups, and high availability.

The migration path depends on the database engine. SQL Server → Azure SQL Database is well-supported by Microsoft tools (DMA, Azure Migrate). MySQL/PostgreSQL → AWS RDS or Azure Flexible Server uses native replication for minimal downtime.

Cloud databases offer automatic backups, point-in-time restore, read replicas, automatic scaling, and global distribution. For most small-to-medium businesses, managed cloud databases are cheaper and more reliable than self-hosted.

Microsoft Access → Proper Database

Microsoft Access databases being used for business-critical operations. Multi-user access causing corruption. File size limits. No proper backup. No audit trail. Access was never designed for production workloads.

We migrate Access databases to SQL Server, PostgreSQL, or a cloud database. The Access front-end forms are replaced with a web application (or remain as an Access front-end connecting to SQL Server, depending on your preference).

Data is migrated with validation. Relationships, constraints, and business rules are preserved. Reports are rebuilt. Macros and VBA are rewritten as application logic or stored procedures.

Multi-Database Consolidation

Multiple databases across different systems that should be one. Common in businesses that have grown through acquisition, or where departments built their own systems independently. Customer data in three places, product data in two, and nobody knows which is the source of truth.

We map the data across systems, identify overlaps and conflicts, design a consolidated schema, and build ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes to merge the data. Deduplication, data quality fixes, and relationship mapping.

The consolidated database becomes the single source of truth. Existing applications are updated to point at the new database. Reports and analytics become meaningful because the data is consistent.

Database platform migration from Oracle/SQL Server to PostgreSQL with schema conversion
Database version upgrade for PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server with staging validation
Database cloud migration from on-premises server to Azure SQL or AWS RDS managed service
Microsoft Access database replacement with SQL Server or PostgreSQL migration
Multi-database consolidation into single source of truth with ETL and deduplication
Legacy database migration project
Case Study

Legacy database migration that preserved 15 years of data

We migrated a sporting club from Microsoft Access to a modern web platform. Fifteen years of member data, registrations and competition records, safely moved and now cloud-accessible.

Read the full case study
15 yrs Data preserved
100% Cloud accessible
50% Less admin time
Why Migrate

Why database migration is worth the investment

Database licensing cost comparison between Oracle, SQL Server, and PostgreSQL

Reduce licensing costs: often by 80% or more

Oracle and SQL Server Enterprise licensing is expensive. Per-core licensing, CALs, or Named User Plus fees add up fast. For many workloads, PostgreSQL (free, open source) handles the job with equivalent performance.

Oracle to PostgreSQL migration is the most common cost-driven migration we see. A medium business spending $50,000+ per year on Oracle licensing can migrate to PostgreSQL and pay zero in database licensing. The savings fund the migration project.

SQL Server Standard is more affordable than Oracle, but PostgreSQL is still free. For businesses running SQL Server on Azure or AWS, managed PostgreSQL often costs less than managed SQL Server for comparable workloads.

Database security with version upgrades, encryption, and compliance requirements

End-of-life databases do not receive security patches

Running an EOL database version means known vulnerabilities that will never be fixed. For databases storing customer data, financial information, or personal data, this is a compliance risk under the Australian Privacy Act.

Database version upgrades are not just about features. They are about security. Every major database vendor publishes CVEs for older versions. If the version is EOL, those CVEs remain unpatched.

After migration or upgrade: current version with active security patches, encrypted connections (TLS), encrypted at rest, proper authentication, and audit logging configured.

Database performance improvements across PostgreSQL, MySQL, and SQL Server versions

Newer database versions are significantly faster

PostgreSQL 16 versus PostgreSQL 12: improved query planning, better parallel queries, and faster VACUUM. MySQL 8.4 versus 5.7: window functions, CTEs, and improved optimizer. SQL Server 2022 versus 2014: intelligent query processing and in-memory improvements.

Cloud databases add auto-scaling capability. Azure SQL serverless scales to zero when idle and up when busy. AWS Aurora read replicas distribute read traffic. These options are not available on old, self-hosted database versions.

Query performance improvements in newer versions are "free" performance. You do not need to rewrite queries to benefit from a better optimizer, improved indexes, or more efficient storage engines.

Database vendor independence with open-source PostgreSQL on any cloud provider

Reduce vendor lock-in and increase options

Oracle vendor lock-in is notorious. PL/SQL, Oracle-specific features, and licensing complexity make it hard to leave. But leaving is possible. PostgreSQL handles the vast majority of Oracle workloads, and the migration tooling is mature.

Open-source databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB) can run on any cloud provider, any hosting, or your own hardware. No per-core licensing, no vendor negotiations, no surprise audit letters.

Multi-cloud strategy becomes possible. PostgreSQL on AWS today, Azure tomorrow, Google next year. No licensing implications, no vendor approval required, same database everywhere.

Services

What the database migration includes

From assessment to post-migration tuning. Schema conversion, data migration, and application updates.

Migration Assessment

Schema complexity, stored procedures, data volume, application dependencies, and effort estimate. Clear report before committing.

Schema Conversion

Data types, constraints, indexes, views, triggers, and stored procedures converted to the target platform.

Data Migration & Validation

Bulk data transfer with row-by-row validation. Data integrity checks ensure nothing is lost or corrupted.

Application Layer Updates

Connection strings, ORM configuration, raw SQL queries, and database-specific code updated for the new platform.

Performance Benchmarking

Critical queries benchmarked before and after migration. Performance validated against business requirements.

Post-Migration Support

Monitoring and support for 4 weeks after migration. Query performance tuning, issue resolution, and optimisation.

Database Migration

Need to migrate a database?

Tell us what you are running and where you want to go. We will assess the migration complexity and provide a fixed-price quote.

Common Migrations

Database migration scenarios we handle

The migrations we do most often for Australian businesses.

01

Oracle → PostgreSQL

Reduce licensing costs by migrating from Oracle to PostgreSQL. The most common cost-driven database migration. PL/SQL to PL/pgSQL conversion included.

02

SQL Server → PostgreSQL

Migration from SQL Server to PostgreSQL for licensing savings or cloud strategy. T-SQL to PL/pgSQL, SSRS reports to alternative reporting.

03

MySQL → PostgreSQL

Growing beyond MySQL limitations. Need better JSON support, full-text search, CTEs, or advanced features. PostgreSQL handles complex workloads better.

04

Access → SQL Server or PostgreSQL

Business-critical Access database migrated to a proper database server. Multi-user, reliable, backed up, and accessible via web application.

05

On-Premises → Cloud Database

Self-hosted database moved to Azure SQL, AWS RDS, or Google Cloud SQL. Managed service with automatic backups, patching, and scaling.

06

Version Upgrade (EOL)

End-of-life database version upgraded to current. PostgreSQL 12→16, MySQL 5.7→8.4, SQL Server 2014→2022. Security patches and performance improvements.

How It Works

Database migration process: step by step

From assessment to post-migration tuning. Data integrity validated at every stage.

1. Assessment & Planning

Schema audited: tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, functions, indexes, and data types. Data volume measured. Application dependencies mapped. Effort estimated and migration strategy selected.

2. Schema Conversion

Source schema converted to target platform. Data types mapped, constraints preserved, stored procedures translated. Automated conversion tools used where possible, manual work where needed.

3. Data Migration

Data transferred from source to target. Bulk insert for initial load, then incremental sync during the transition period. Row counts and checksums validated at every stage.

4. Application Updates

Application code updated for the new database. Connection strings, ORM configuration, raw SQL queries, and database-specific features. Full regression testing.

5. Cutover & Go-Live

Final data sync, application pointed at new database, and production validation. Rollback plan in place if issues arise. Cutover window minimised, often under an hour for medium databases.

6. Post-Migration Tuning

Query performance monitored and tuned on the new platform. Indexes optimised for the new query planner. 4 weeks of post-migration support to catch and resolve issues.

Technical Context

Database platforms and tools we work with

Relational, NoSQL, cloud-managed, and the tools for migrating between them.

PostgreSQL

The most common migration target. Free, open-source, enterprise-grade. Handles Oracle and SQL Server workloads.

SQL Server

Microsoft's relational database. Common in .NET environments. Managed versions on Azure SQL and AWS RDS.

MySQL / MariaDB

Widely used in PHP and WordPress environments. MariaDB as the community fork with additional features.

Azure SQL / AWS RDS

Managed cloud database services. Automatic backups, patching, scaling, and high availability.

ETL Tools

Data migration and transformation tools. AWS DMS, Azure Database Migration Service, pgLoader, and custom scripts.

MongoDB

Document database for unstructured or semi-structured data. Sometimes the right migration target for non-relational workloads.

We were spending $60,000 a year on Oracle licensing for a database that was not particularly complex. HELLO PEOPLE migrated us to PostgreSQL in eight weeks. The application works the same, performance is actually better, and we save the licensing cost every year.

IT Manager Manufacturing, Australia
Related Services

Related technology and service pages

Technology

Database Development

Our main database page covering new database projects, design, and full-stack development with databases.

Technology

Access Database Replacement

Dedicated page for migrating Microsoft Access databases to proper web applications with SQL Server or PostgreSQL.

Technology

AWS Development

AWS cloud migration including RDS, Aurora, and DynamoDB for cloud-hosted database solutions.

Technology

.NET Application Support & Upgrades

.NET application often migrated alongside the database. SQL Server upgrades are commonly paired with .NET Framework upgrades.

Technology

Laravel Development

Laravel applications typically backed by MySQL or PostgreSQL. Database migration may be part of a Laravel upgrade.

Service

Custom Software Development

When the database migration is part of a larger application modernisation or rebuild.

FAQs

Common questions about database migration

How long does a database migration take?

Simple migrations (MySQL → PostgreSQL, small schema, no stored procedures): 2-4 weeks. Medium complexity (SQL Server → PostgreSQL, stored procedures, multiple applications): 4-10 weeks. Complex (Oracle → PostgreSQL, heavy PL/SQL, large data volume): 8-20+ weeks.

How much does a database migration cost?

We assess the source database and provide a fixed-price quote. Version upgrades sit at the lower end of project size. Simple platform migration is larger. Medium platform migration with stored procedure conversion is larger again. Complex Oracle migration runs higher.

Will there be downtime during the migration?

Minimal. We use replication or dual-write strategies during the transition period. The final cutover, switching the application from old to new database, typically requires minutes to a few hours depending on data volume and the sync strategy.

Can you migrate stored procedures?

Yes. Oracle PL/SQL to PostgreSQL PL/pgSQL, SQL Server T-SQL to PL/pgSQL, or any other combination. Automated conversion handles straightforward procedures. Complex business logic is manually translated and tested.

What about our reports?

Reports that query the database directly (SSRS, Crystal Reports, Excel connections) need to be updated to point at the new database. Query syntax differences may need adjustment. We include report migration in the project scope.

Should we migrate to PostgreSQL?

For most workloads, PostgreSQL is an excellent choice: free, performant, feature-rich, and widely supported on every cloud provider. But it depends on your ecosystem. If you are deeply invested in Microsoft (.NET, Azure, SSRS), staying on SQL Server may make more sense. We assess and recommend honestly.

Can the application keep running during migration?

Yes. We set up the new database alongside the old one. Data is replicated. The application switches to the new database only when everything is validated. If issues arise, the application can switch back to the old database.

Do you handle the application code changes too?

Yes. Database migration without updating the application code is only half the job. We update connection strings, ORM configuration, raw SQL queries, and database-specific features in the application layer.

Get Started

Ready to migrate your database?

Tell us the source database, target platform, and data volume. We will provide a migration assessment and fixed-price quote.

Tell Us About Your Database Migration

Source database, target platform, data volume, and timeline. We will assess and come back with a plan.

Prefer a quick chat? Call 0425 531 127. We answer the phone in Perth.