How does the upcoming Super Guarantee rate increase affect your business?

The increase in the Super Guarantee (SGC) rate from 9.5% to 10% is just around the corner, commencing 1 July 2021.

With this upcoming change, both employers and employees will need to understand what this increase means to business costs and to take-home wages.

How the employer deals with the increase may differ depending on the salary structures and agreements that apply to each employee in your business.  There are several scenarios: Where wages are paid under a super-inclusive package: In the absence of a remuneration review, the employee will most likely have their take-home cash payment reduced by the amount representing the SGC increase.  For example:

With increased SGC (10%)

Outcome: employee’s take home pay reduces. Alternatively, the employer could consider implementing a pay increase to keep take-home pay the same as before the SGC increase.  This increase obviously will impact business costs and budgets. Where employees receive SGC on top of their cash income In this instance, the employee continues to receive their usual wage, with the employer paying the increase in the SGC amount.  Again, this additional cost needs to be reflected in the business’ budget. Other remuneration and super arrangements Some employers have top-up arrangements for super (eg 5% on top of the SGC rate).  The impact of the SGC rate increase would need to be reviewed on a case-by-case/agreement by agreement basis. So what steps to take now?

• Review your employment arrangements, to understand what options are available
• Decide whether to maintain take-home pay levels
• Have good communication with your team members – especially if your decision will impact their take-home cash
• Finally, as we start the new financial year – ensure your payroll systems reflect the new SGC rate.

For more information or if you have any questions about your personal situation, contact our office on (08) 8172 1444 or email our friendly team today!