26/07/2026
Have you completed your 1 July 2026 Fair Work Compliance Checks?
The new financial year isn't just about budgets and tax planning it also brings important workplace compliance changes. While many payroll systems automatically update some settings, it's your responsibility as an employer to ensure your business is compliant. A quick review now could save you significant time, stress, and potential penalties later.
Here are 3 key employment law changes every Australian employer should review:
1. Award wages increased from 1 July 2026 (and do every year) make sure that all of your award employee’s classifications and minimum wages have been increased to the new rates from 1 July 2026. So ask yourself:
• Do you know which Modern Award each employee is covered by?
• Have you checked that every employee has been correctly classified?
• Have the new minimum pay rates been applied in your payroll system?
Incorrect classifications and underpayments remain one of the biggest compliance risks for small businesses.
2. Payday Super Has Arrived which means that from 1 July 2026, employers are required to pay superannuation within 7 business days of each payday, replacing the previous quarterly payment cycle. The current Superannuation Guarantee rate is 12% of ordinary time earnings.
Don't forget that the final quarterly super payment is due by 28 July 2026.
The ATO has confirmed that penalties may apply for businesses that fail to meet the new requirements, so now is the time to speak with your payroll provider or bookkeeper and ensure your systems are ready.
3. Paid Parental Leave change to the Australian Government's Paid Parental Leave Scheme has increased to 26 weeks for eligible parents. This is a great opportunity to review your:
* Parental Leave Policy
* Keeping in Touch arrangements
* Communication processes
* Succession and workforce planning
A well-written policy provides clarity for both your employees and your business.
Not sure if your business is compliant?
At Reign HR Consulting, we help small and medium-sized businesses take the complexity out of employment compliance. Whether you need an HR compliance review, updated policies, payroll compliance guidance, or ongoing HR support, we're here to help.
Email: [email protected]
Don't wait until Fair Work or the ATO identifies an issue—review your compliance now and give yourself peace of mind.