By understanding the super rate, you can check if your employer is paying your super correctly. And that’s why we’re here to guide you through everything you need to know about the super rate.
What is the superannuation rate?
In a nutshell, the superannuation rate (also called the 'super guarantee') is a percentage of your salary your employer pays into your super. Most employees can be paid at the SG rate. You get paid the super rate even if you’re a casual, part-time, or full-time worker. And it doesn’t matter how much you earn – your employer will still pay your super at the SG rate.
What’s the current super rate in Australia?
In 2026, the minimum superannuation rate in Australia is 12%, which is an increase from 11.5%. This means your employer must pay at least 12% of your earnings into your super fund each quarter or on the day you get paid. But this rule is changing, and from 1 July 2026 your employer must pay your super on your payday.
Who gets paid the super rate?
You’re eligible for super guarantee contributions if you work full time, part time, or casually. This includes if you’re:
- under 18 years old and work at least 30 hours a week
- receiving a super pension while working
- a temporary resident
- a company director
- a family member who is an employee in your family’s business.
Can my employer pay more than the super rate?
Yes, your employer can pay more than 12% of your ordinary time earnings into your super. But they can only pay up to a total of $7,500 into your super each quarter. This is because of the maximum contribution base (MCB), which is the highest amount of ordinary time earnings you can make in a quarter to be eligible for the SG rate.
So, if you earn more than $62,000 (the MCB) each quarter, your employer pays your super at the SG rate but only for the MCB. But your employer can choose to make extra contributions if you earn more than $62,000 each quarter as long as they don’t exceed the cap.
What happens if my employer doesn’t pay my super?
If your employer doesn’t pay your super, then you can report them to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It’s always a good idea to regularly check your payslips to make sure that your employer is paying your super at the 12% SG rate and nothing less. On top of that, your employer must pay your super into your nominated fund.
Set future-you up for a comfy retirement
Getting paid the SG rate isn’t the only way you can boost your super. If you want to discover more tips to boost your super, then check out the different ways you can grow your super.
If you have multiple jobs, your employer must still pay your super at the 12% rate. And when you’re starting another job while still employed, it’s a good idea to share your current super fund details to avoid having multiple accounts. Having multiple accounts means you’re paying more admin fees and might have less money in your super overall. But if you have more than one account open, then you can consider consolidating them.
Yes, you do get paid super if you’re a casual employee. But if you’re under 18, you need to work at least 30 hours in one week to be paid super.
Super gets paid based on your ordinary time earnings. This includes commissions, bonuses, annual leave, and your regular wages. But you don’t get paid super on any earnings you make from working overtime.
You can make up to $120,000 in personal contributions (also called after-tax contributions) in a single financial year.
Where to next?
[O2] This example is for illustrative purposes only. It relies on various assumptions. If actual circumstances differ from these assumptions, actual results will be different.