From 1 July 2026, the way employers pay superannuation is set to change significantly.
Under the proposed Payday Superannuation legislation, employers will be required to pay their employees’ superannuation guarantee (SG) at the same time as salary and wages—rather than quarterly as is currently the norm.
This shift is designed to improve retirement outcomes by ensuring super contributions are made more frequently and promptly. However, it also introduces new compliance obligations and potential penalties for late or incorrect payments.
Key Changes to Be Aware Of:
- Timing of Contributions: SG payments must reach employees’ super funds within 7 business days of each payday.
- New Definition – Qualifying Earnings (QE): Includes ordinary time earnings, salary sacrifice contributions, and other SG-relevant amounts.
- Updated Superannuation Guarantee Charge (SGC): Late or missing payments will attract a revised SGC, including interest, administrative charges, and penalties.
- STP Reporting Enhancements: Employers must report both QE and SG liabilities via Single Touch Payroll.
- SBSCH Retirement: The Small Business Superannuation Clearing House will be decommissioned from 1 July 2026. The SBSCH was closed to new users on 1 October 2025.
How We Can Help
We’re here to guide you through these changes. Our services include:
- Reviewing and updating your payroll systems to better manage your compliance
- Advising on commercial clearing house alternatives
- Training your team on new reporting and payment processes
- Monitoring SG obligations and deadlines to help avoid potential penalties
We recommend starting preparations early to ensure a smooth transition.
We will be in touch to follow up these issues and if you would like to schedule a consultation to review your payroll systems and process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
