Non-Compete Clauses in Australia. What Employers Need to Know.
During economic uncertainty, the difference between businesses that thrive and those that simply survive often comes down to how strategically they manage workforce costs.
As of July 1, 2026, significant changes to Superannuation payments will come into effect, requiring employers to make Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions on payday, alongside regular wages. This new system, known as “Payday Super,” means that every time you pay your employees, you will also need to contribute to their Superannuation. This change will end quarterly super payments and require that contributions reach the nominated super fund within seven days of payday. Failure to meet this deadline will result in penalties, including interest and charges.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
Employers will need to ensure compliance with several new reporting requirements under Single Touch Payroll (STP). You must report both the Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) and the total Super liability for each employee, facilitating accurate superannuation assessment and compliance.
Key Changes Include:
- Reduced Allocation Time:
The deadline for superannuation funds to allocate or return contributions will decrease from 20 business days to just 3 days. - Simplified Fund Choice:
Revised rules will make it easier for employees to nominate their super fund when starting a new job.
Exceptions to Note:
- Contributions have a deferred due date during the first two weeks of employment.
- Small and irregular payments that occur outside the regular pay cycle are not considered a “payday” until the next scheduled payment.
Why Are These Changes Happening?
- Enhanced Monitoring:
Payday Super aims to improve the superannuation system, providing consistency and ease of tracking for both employers and employees. - Increased Financial Security:
More frequent contributions will enable employees to monitor their retirement savings effectively, enhancing their financial security. - Streamlined Processes for Businesses:
Employers will benefit from clearer payroll processes and reduced long-term liabilities. - Tackling Unpaid Superannuation:
These changes aim to enforce compliance with penalties for non-payment and underpayment, benefitting 8.9 million employees with higher retirement savings. - Proactive Interventions:
Employers can resolve issues early, allowing for prompt disclosures of any failures to pay Super on time, which can reduce penalties.
What If You're Not Compliant?
The updated Superannuation Guarantee charge imposes penalties and interest on late or incomplete payments, with escalating consequences for repeated non-compliance. Employees are ensured compensation for any delays, incentivising employers to settle outstanding superannuation promptly.
Get a Head Start on 2026 Payroll Changes
Preparing now can save your business time, stress, and money in the future. Avoid missed payments by:
- Collaborating with a team of HR professionals to review your payroll systems and processes.
- Implementing automated payroll systems that synchronise Superannuation payments with wage
- Ensuring your existing payroll system can adapt to the new requirements.
- Monitoring payment schedules to guarantee contributions reach the correct super fund on time.
- Regularly checking compliance to avoid charges for missed payments.
- Promptly correcting any payment errors to minimise liabilities and penalties.
We Can Help!
Don’t get caught off guard by the upcoming Superannuation changes! At Perform HR, we specialise in helping SMEs navigate the complexities of HR compliance. Contact us today for a consultation to ensure that your business is ready to adapt to these changes and avoid potential pitfalls.
Call today on 1300 406 005 or email us at info@performhr.com.au.
“Preparing for Payday Super means taking proactive steps today to ensure seamless payroll compliance tomorrow.”
