Government's rush to implement Payday Super is 'reckless': Coalition

Although Payday Super addresses critical issues, including the $5 billion in unpaid super, the Coalition believes the government's "rushed implementation" of the bill could hurt the economy.

- Matthew Wai

Payday Super, which is slated to come into effect on 1 July 2026, was read for the second time on October 28. Addressing the lower house, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Treasury Laws Amendment (Payday Superannuation) Bill 2025 will help stop "disreputable" employers from exploiting their employees, with over $5 billion in unpaid super that should have gone to workers.

"Super is an entitlement for workers, like salary or wages, and unpaid super is a form of wage theft," Chalmers said.

"This issue disproportionately affects more vulnerable Australians and also Australia's working women.

"This bill will help put a stop to it."

Deputy leader of the opposition Ted O'Brien said the Coalition supports the principle of Payday Super but proposed a more gradual rollout.