From 1st July 2026, employers will be required to make superannuation contributions at the same time as they pay their employees. This will add greater cash flow pressures. Contributions will be required within seven days of the employee’s wage being paid. Note that the seven days are calendar days, not business days.

Under the new framework, employers will be penalised a Super Guarantee Charge comprising:

• The SG shortfall amount.
• A daily interest charge on the SG shortfall calculated at the General Interest Charge rate (11.36%).
• An additional charge to reflect the cost of enforcement. This charge is up to 60% of the SG shortfall and may be reduced where employers voluntarily disclose.

Exceptions appear to be for new employees, where the start date is deferred until two weeks after their employment. Another exception is for small and irregular payments that occur outside of the normal pay cycle.