Payday Super 2026

What is changing?

Before 1 July 2026, employers generally paid super guarantee (SG) contributions at least quarterly. Payday Super replaced that timing framework for earnings from 1 July 2026.

Employers now calculate SG on qualifying earnings each payday. The contribution generally must reach the employee's fund within 7 business days.

Implementation timeline

Impact on workers

Payday Super benefits employees in several ways:

• Earlier investment returns — contributions invested sooner means more time for compound growth
• Easier to check — you can verify each payslip against your super fund statement immediately
• Reduced unpaid super risk — shorter gaps make it harder for unpaid super to accumulate unnoticed
• Better for casual and gig workers — workers who change jobs frequently will benefit most from timely payments

Impact on employers

Employers need processes that support the following requirements:

• Payroll system updates — systems must calculate SG on qualifying earnings each pay cycle
• More frequent payments — super must generally reach the employee's fund within 7 business days of payday
• Cash flow changes — funding must be available for super payments on each payroll cycle
• SuperStream compliance — each payment must be processed through the existing SuperStream electronic system

Payday Super compliance checklist

For employers

• Check with your payroll software provider about payday super readiness
• Review your cash flow processes for more frequent super payments
• Ensure your SuperStream and clearing house arrangements can handle per-pay-period processing
• Communicate changes to your payroll and finance teams

For employees

• No immediate action required
• You should see super contributions on your fund statement more frequently
• Check that your employer is paying correctly by comparing each payslip to your super statement
• Ensure your super fund details are up to date with your employer to avoid payment issues