Most Australians know they have superannuation, but surprisingly few understand exactly how much their employer is required to pay, when it must be paid, and how to check they're actually receiving it. In 2025–26, the Super Guarantee rate is 12% — and knowing your rights could be worth tens of thousands of dollars over your career.
What Is the Super Guarantee?
The Superannuation Guarantee (SG) is a compulsory system requiring Australian employers to make regular contributions to their employees' superannuation funds. It's calculated as a percentage of your Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) — roughly, your regular salary before overtime.
The SG Rate in 2025–26
The Super Guarantee rate for 2025–26 is 12% — the result of a legislated schedule of gradual increases.
| Financial Year | SG Rate |
|---|---|
| 2022–23 | 10.5% |
| 2023–24 | 11.0% |
| 2024–25 | 11.5% |
| 2025–26 | 12.0% |
Is Super Included in My Salary Package?
This depends on how your contract is structured. Salary + Super means your employer pays 12% on top of your stated salary. Total Remuneration Package means super comes out of the total figure — you're not getting extra.
Always clarify this when starting a new job. If a job ad says "$95,000 package," ask whether that's inclusive or exclusive of super — it can be worth $10,000+ difference.
When Must Employers Pay Super?
Your employer must pay super at least quarterly — within 28 days after the end of each quarter. From 1 July 2026, new Payday Super rules will require super to be paid on the same day as wages for most employers.
| Quarter | Payment Deadline |
|---|---|
| 1 July – 30 September | 28 October |
| 1 October – 31 December | 28 January |
| 1 January – 31 March | 28 April |
| 1 April – 30 June | 28 July |
How to Check You're Receiving Your Super
- Check your super fund account — log into your fund's online portal regularly and look for contributions arriving each quarter
- Check your payslip — it should show the super amount being allocated each pay period
- Use myGov / ATO Online — link your ATO account and check "Super" to see all funds and recent contributions
- Contact the ATO — if you suspect unpaid super, report it at ato.gov.au — the ATO can pursue it confidentially on your behalf
See exactly how much super your employer should be paying on your salary
Use the Free Calculator →Key Takeaways
- The Super Guarantee rate is 12% in 2025–26 — paid on top of your salary
- Check whether your package is inclusive or exclusive of super when negotiating
- Employers must pay quarterly — from July 2026, super must be paid on payday
- Check your super fund regularly to confirm contributions are arriving
- Report unpaid super to the ATO — it's free and confidential