1 July 2026
The term 'superannuation guarantee' might not be one you come across every day, but it's important to understand because it dictates the minimum percentage of your earnings that your employer has to pay into your super. This money will help fund your retirement.
To understand the importance of the superannuation guarantee, you need to know how it relates to your super. The super guarantee (SG) is the money your employer pays into your chosen super fund so that it can be invested to help save money for your retirement. Throughout your working life, you can generally help grow your super by making extra, voluntary contributions1 and your employer has a legal obligation to contribute regular payments on your behalf2. Many people will use their super alongside any government age pension payments they're entitled to, to live a more comfortable lifestyle when they stop working.
The superannuation guarantee rate
The superannuation guarantee dictates the minimum percentage of your earnings your employer needs to pay into your super fund. The Australian Government controls and legislates the super guarantee.
SG contributions are important for your future financial security
The superannuation guarantee is an important part of the superannuation system. It was introduced on 1 July 1992 to increase the financial security of Australians once they are no longer working. Its aim is to provide funding for Australians in retirement, so that fewer people have to rely solely on the Government Aged Pension as a source of income.
Calculate what 12% SG looks like for you
The current SG rate is 12%. To find out what impact SG could have on your super savings, you can access our Super Projection Calculator here.
Estimate your super at retirement
What is pay day super?
The Australian Government is introducing major reforms to the SG system to tackle unpaid super and improve retirement outcomes for workers. From July 1 2026 employers will be required to pay super contributions at the same time they pay salaries and wages. For most, this will mean payments are made weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, depending on payroll frequency.
The current SG rate is 12%.
Am I entitled to be paid superannuation?
If you’re an employee, and aged 18 or over then you’re generally eligible to receive SG super contributions. If you’re under 18, you must also work more than 30 hours per week to be entitled to SG contributions. If you’re a contractor, you may also be eligible depending on whether you’re considered an employer for super guarantee purposes.
Refer to the ATO website for more information
Keep track of your super contributions
Log in to your superannuation account to make sure you’re being paid super at the correct SG rate, at the same time as your normal payroll cycle.
If you’re an AustralianSuper member you can download the free App to view your most recent payments and your balance. You can set an alert for every time a contribution is made to your account. You can also check your insurance, update personal details and make contributions.
What should I do if I’m not being paid super?
Talk to your employer first. If you’re unable to resolve your unpaid super query with them, visit the ATO website or call them on 13 10 20 for a step-by-step guide on how to recover missed or underpaid super.
ATO.GOV: SUPER ENTITLEMENTS AND MISSING SUPER
READ MORE: AUSTRALIANSUPER.COM/SUPERANNUATION
References:
- Before adding to your super, consider your financial circumstances, eligibility, contribution caps that may apply, tax issues and when your super can be accessed. We recommend you consider seeking financial advice.
- Eligibility requirements apply. Visit www.ato.gov.au for full details.
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