AU Pay & Tax

Super

Superannuation explained (Australia)

A plain-English guide to the 11% super guarantee, how super relates to take-home pay, and what to expect on your payslip.

The 11% super guarantee

Employers generally must contribute 11% of your ordinary time earnings (OTE) to your super fund. This is separate from your take-home pay unless your offer is explicitly “inclusive of super.”

  • 11% SG applies to most employees; check the ATO for exceptions.
  • Paid on top of base salary unless your contract says “including super.”
  • Goes to your nominated super fund and is not spendable as take-home pay.

Super vs take-home pay

Super is not deducted from your net pay in this calculator. It is shown separately to reflect employer contributions. Salary sacrifice into super would reduce your taxable income, but this simplified calculator does not model salary sacrifice.

FAQ

Does super reduce my tax?

Employer SG does not reduce your tax. Salary sacrifice into super can reduce taxable income, but that is not included in this simplified calculator.

Is super included in my salary?

Most offers are “plus super,” meaning super is on top. If your contract says “including super,” the stated amount already contains the super portion.

How much super should I get?

At least 11% of ordinary time earnings, unless an award or contract specifies more. Check your payslip for the super line and ensure it matches the required rate.

Next step

To see take-home pay alongside super, use the Australian Pay & Tax Calculator, then review the tax brackets or Medicare levy guides if needed.