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Superannuation
Last updated July 2026
This chapter explains your superannuation obligations, including what fund to pay superannuation into, how much to pay and what records you need to retain.
What are your superannuation obligations?
You are obligated to make a compulsory superannuation contribution:
- to eligible employees (read more);
- at at least the minimum prescribed rate (read more);
- into a complying superannuation fund (read more).
Important: From 1 July 2026, superannuation must be paid within 7 business days of the day when employees are paid salary or wages. An extended timeframe of 20 business days for payment of SG contributions will apply for a new employee. This is to account for the additional time employers may need to onboard new employees and obtain accurate details about the superannuation fund to which SG contributions will be made.
Caution: The Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992 (SG Act) creates a liability for you as an employer if you do not do this. This is called the superannuation guarantee.
Definition: Superannuation Guarantee
The superannuation guarantee arising under the SG Act requires Australian employers to contribute a minimum level of superannuation support into a complying superannuation fund for any employee that the system covers.
The superannuation guarantee arising under the SG Act requires Australian employers to contribute a minimum level of superannuation support into a complying superannuation fund for any employee that the system covers.