Do casuals get super? Superannuation for casual workers explained
As a casual worker in Australia, understanding your superannuation entitlements is crucial for securing your financial future. We’ve broken down the ins and outs of superannuation for casual workers – from what it is to eligibility and how you can maximise your super.
What is a casual worker?
According to Fairwork Australia, a casual employee is defined as someone starting employment with no firm advance commitment to ongoing work.
In 2024, there were more than 2.5 million casual employees in Australia, representing 18 per cent of all employed people.
As a casual worker, you generally won’t have entitlements like paid holiday or sick leave, but you will receive casual loading or a specific casual pay rate under an award, registered agreement, or employment contract – which basically means a higher hourly wage. You’re also protected from unfair dismissal, and one part of the casual working relationship that goes both ways – an employer can’t force you to work a shift, and you don’t have to be available to work 24/7.
Do casuals get super?
The short answer is yes; all Australian workers are covered by the Superannuation Guarantee legislation – whether you work full time, part time or on a casual basis.
How much super is paid to casual workers?
The superannuation guarantee (SG) for all Australian workers is calculated as a percentage of your ordinary time earnings (OTE), which is the income you earn for the hours you work, not including overtime payments. As of 1 July 2025, the SG contribution rate is 12 per cent.
Currently, employers are required to pay these contributions at least quarterly into your nominated super account.
So, if you’re a casual worker over the age of 18 working say, 20 hours per week, then 12 per cent of your overall pay will be in SG contributions (or super payments). For casual workers under 18, it’s a little different, so let’s unpack that.
Superannuation for workers under 18
If you’re a casual worker under 18, you need to work at least 30 hours a week at one employer to be eligible for any SG payments.
So, say you have a casual job at a café and another at a local florist. If in one week you rack up 15 hours at each job, you won’t be eligible for any SG contributions. But, if you work 32 hours at the café, and 4 at the florist, you will be eligible for SG contributions on the hours worked at the café.
If you are under 18 and looking to grow your super, here are some of our tips:
Track your hours
Keep a record of the hours you work each week to ensure you meet the 30-hour requirement for super contributions.
Understand your payslip
Check your pay slip to see if super contributions are being made when you do qualify.
Start early
Consider opening a super account if you don’t already have one. This allows you to begin growing your savings for the future.
What if I don’t have a super fund?
Employers are required to provide all new employees with a Super choice form within 28 days of commencing employment, allowing you to nominate your preferred super fund.
If you haven't given your employer a preferred super fund, your employer will pay your contributions into their default fund. But you have the right to select your own fund at any time.
What happens if my employer isn’t paying me super?
If you suspect your employer isn't making the required super contributions, there are a few options you can take.
- Verify your super payments
Check your super account statements or log in to your account online to see if contributions have been made.
- Contact your employer
Discuss the issue with your employer, as it might be an oversight.
- Seek Assistance
If unresolved, contact the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for guidance on how to proceed.
How can I maximise my super as a casual worker?
Even as a casual worker, there are strategies to boost your super savings:
Consolidate your super accounts
If you have multiple super accounts from different jobs, consider consolidating them to save on fees. Remember to check any insurances you hold in different super accounts before consolidating.
Make voluntary contributions
Adding extra money to your super can enhance your retirement savings. Be mindful of contribution caps to avoid additional tax.
Government co-contribution
If you meet certain conditions and make after-tax super contributions, you may be eligible for a government co-contribution. The government could contribute some funds into your super, depending on your income and contribution amount. The ATO will automatically make these payments if you meet the criteria. See the co-contributions eligibility criteria.
Understanding and actively managing your superannuation is vital, even as a casual worker. Regularly monitor your super account, ensure your employer is making the correct contributions, and consider additional strategies to boost your retirement savings.
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