From 1 July 2024, Australian employers are required to contribute 11.5% of an employee's ordinary time earnings into their superannuation fund. This rate is legislated to increase to 12% from 1 July 2025 as part of a schedule to reach 12% and stay there. Understanding this rate matters because super is paid in addition to your wages, not deducted from them, and many working holiday makers do not realise they are entitled to it.
What counts as ordinary time earnings
Ordinary time earnings include your regular wages for ordinary hours of work. They generally also include certain allowances and loadings. Overtime payments are not always included, though the rules can be complex depending on your award or agreement. In most practical situations for working holiday makers working standard shifts, the 11.5% applies to the core of what you are paid.
How to check your super is being paid
The most reliable way to check is to log in to your super fund's online portal and look at your contribution history. Each contribution your employer makes should appear there with a date and amount. If you have not set up online access to your fund, contact the fund directly using the contact details on your membership card or on the fund's website.
Alternatively, you can see your super contributions through myGov once you have linked your ATO account. The ATO receives super contribution data from funds and displays it against your record.
What if your employer is not paying
If you believe your employer has not been paying super or has been paying less than the required rate, you can report it to the ATO. The ATO has a process for investigating unpaid super, known as the Superannuation Guarantee, and can pursue employers who fail to meet their obligations. You can also contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.
Keep records of your employment, including your payslips, your employment start and end dates, and your approximate earnings. This information is what supports a super underpayment complaint.
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