My employer owes me super
What to do when your employer isn't paying superannuation — how to check, report it, and recover what you're owed.
How to check if your super is being paid
Log into your super fund's website or app. Your employer must pay super at least quarterly — by the 28th day after each quarter ends (28 October, 28 January, 28 April, 28 July). If you can't see contributions for the most recent completed quarter, they may be late. You can also check via myGov by linking your ATO account and viewing your super through ATO Online Services.
What you're entitled to
As of 1 July 2025, the super guarantee rate is 12% of your ordinary time earnings. This applies to most employees, including casuals, part-timers, and temporary residents. There is no minimum earnings threshold — if you earn $450 or more in a calendar month, or if your employer pays you more than $450 in a month, super is owed. From 1 July 2026, there will be no minimum threshold at all.
Talk to your employer first
Sometimes super is late due to admin errors or cash flow issues. Raise it in writing — send an email asking about the status of your super contributions. Keep a copy. If your employer confirms they'll pay but doesn't follow through within a reasonable time (2-4 weeks), move to the next step.
Report unpaid super to the ATO
If your employer won't pay, lodge an unpaid super enquiry with the ATO. You can do this online through myGov or by calling 13 10 20. The ATO will investigate and can compel your employer to pay. They'll also charge the employer the super guarantee charge (SGC), which includes interest and an admin fee. Your identity is protected — the ATO won't tell your employer who reported them.
What happens after you report
The ATO will contact your employer and audit their super obligations. If the employer has unpaid super for any employees, the ATO issues a Super Guarantee Charge (SGC) assessment. The employer must pay the original super amount plus interest and penalties directly to the ATO, who then forwards it to your super fund. This process can take several months.
Protect yourself going forward
Check your super balance at least every quarter. Set up alerts in your super fund app if available. Keep copies of your payslips — they must show the super amount being paid. If you're leaving a job, confirm all outstanding super has been paid before your last day. Under the Fair Entitlements Guarantee (FEG), the government may cover unpaid super if your employer goes bankrupt.
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FairWork Mate is an independent commercial service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Fair Work Commission, or any Australian Government agency. Content is general information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.
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