Australian employers are preparing for one of the biggest changes to the superannuation system in recent years, with the introduction of Payday Super from 1 July 2026.
The new rules require employers to pay superannuation contributions at the same time as salary and wages, rather than making quarterly payments. In most cases, contributions must be received by an employee’s super fund within seven business days of payday.
The changes affect a wide range of businesses, including employers who currently use the Small Business Super Clearing House (SBSCH), businesses that pay super less frequently than wages, and self-employed people operating through a company who pay themselves a salary and are subject to the Super Guarantee.
Improving retirement outcomes
The Federal Government is introducing Payday Super to improve retirement savings for Australian workers.
Treasury estimates around 8.9 million employees will benefit from receiving their super earlier and more regularly over the course of their working lives. More frequent contributions mean investment earnings can begin sooner, helping balances grow over time.
The changes also give the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) greater visibility and allow it to respond more quickly when super payments are missed or delayed.
Key changes for employers
Several important changes come into effect from 1 July 2026.
A new term, Qualifying Earnings (QE), replaces the current framework used to calculate Super Guarantee obligations. QE includes ordinary time earnings, salary sacrifice contributions, and other amounts currently counted as salary or wages for super purposes.
Employers must report both QE and their super liability through Single Touch Payroll (STP).
The Small Business Super Clearing House will permanently close at 11.59pm on 30 June 2026. Employers using the service need to make their final payments before this date and download any transaction records they wish to keep, as these records will no longer be accessible after the system closes.
Steps to prepare
Employers are encouraged to review their cash flow, payroll governance, and internal processes well before the start date.
This includes ensuring payroll systems can quickly identify and correct errors so contributions are made within the required timeframe.
Businesses planning to adopt new payroll software should contact their provider or clearing house to confirm the software will be ready in time.
It is also important to understand the new Qualifying Earnings concept and how it affects super calculations.
Penalties for late payments
If super is not paid on time under the new rules, employers may be liable for a Super Guarantee Charge, which is calculated and assessed by the Australian Taxation Office.
Team Super support for employers
Team Super, the specialist industry super fund for workers in transport, energy and mining, is helping employers prepare for the transition.
Its Key Employer Relationship Managers work directly with businesses to explain the new requirements and help implement practical processes to ensure compliance from day one.
Team Super offers on-site visits and presentations tailored to employers and payroll teams.
Employers can contact Team Super on 136463 (8am – 6pm weekdays AEST/AEDT) or email employers@admin.teamsuper.com. For more information, visit teamsuper.com/payday or scan the QR code.
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