We learnt a heap of random facts at school (Pythagoras’ theorem, anyone?) - but absolutely NOTHING about superannuation. But here’s the thing: if you’ve worked in a part-time or full-time job before, it’s likely that you’ll have a superannuation account.

Okay so now that’s out of the way, does my boss always have to pay my super?

Generally, employers are required by law to make regular contributions to your chosen super fund as part of a system called the super guarantee (SG for short). 

It doesn’t matter if you’re a full-timer, part-timer or even a casual, your boss will have to pay you super as long as you meet the age and minimum earning requirement.

• If you’re 18 years old or older and ya earn less than $450 a month before tax, then generally your boss actually doesn’t need to make super contributions?
• If you’re under 18, you’ll only qualify for super guarantee contributions if you’re working more than 30 hours a week

Unfortunately, if ya don’t meet the age or minimum earning requirement, then your boss actually doesn’t need to make super contributions.

Do I get super contributions if I’m a contractor?

If you’re a contractor, then it will depend on the arrangement you’ve got with your employer. If you’re considered an employee, then you may be eligible to receive super.

You’ll need to look at your employment contract, or have a chat with your HR team to find out for sure.

What happens with my super if I’m self-employed?

If you’re self-employed, then it’s up to you to pay yourself super… soz. Yep, that’s right. The government reckons that if you’re responsible enough to employ yourself, then you’re responsible enough to pay your own super!

A little tip is to add 10.5% build into your rate - aka make sure you get paid a little extra so your can afford to top it up. 

For example, if you’re a designer and you think you should charge out at $50 per hour, then you may opt to bump ya rate up to $55.50 per hour to account for super.

How do I know if my employer is actually paying my super?

It’s the million dollar question. It’s always a good idea to check up on your super account to make sure your boss is actually transferring the right amount of cash in there… y’know, just in case. 

The easiest way to do this is by logging into the online portal for your super fund. And keep in mind that payments should be going in at least quarterly, according to the rules.