Set up the account and identity basics
If you work in Australia as an employee, your employer will often need to pay super regardless of whether you are a citizen or permanent resident. Apply for a tax file number, understand your employment arrangement and complete the fund choice process. A tax file number is not compulsory to hold an account, but failing to provide it can affect tax and contributions.
Use your own email and mobile number, keep the fund name and member number, and create a myGov account linked to the ATO when eligible. These details make it easier to find accounts after changing employers or addresses.
Check the first contributions
The standard employer rate is 12% in 2026–27, generally applied to qualifying earnings. From 1 July 2026, contributions are made with salary or wages and generally need to reach the fund within seven business days. Compare the payslip calculation with the fund transaction rather than assuming one proves the other.
Workers on temporary visas, labour-hire arrangements or contracts can still have super rights. If the business calls you a contractor, use the ATO guidance to check whether the work is mainly for your labour and whether employer obligations apply.
Plan for staying or leaving
If you remain in Australia, review the fund like any other long-term investment: fees, performance, investment risk, insurance and beneficiaries. Avoid opening a new account with every job by giving employers the same eligible details when the fund still suits you.
Eligible temporary residents who permanently leave Australia after their visa ends may be able to claim a departing Australia superannuation payment. Tax can be substantial and the rules do not generally apply to Australian or New Zealand citizens. Keep identity, visa and employment records and use the ATO process rather than a paid recovery service unless you need specialist help.
Quick reference
Key things to remember
- Apply for a tax file number and keep it secure.
- Choose a fund or understand how your employer’s default and stapling process works.
- Give payroll accurate personal and fund details.
- Temporary residents may later be eligible for a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment.
Put it into practice
Your next steps
- 01
Use the ATO employee eligibility tool.
- 02
Compare funds using official tools.
- 03
Check your first contribution after starting work.
- 04
Keep Australian bank and identity records accessible if you later leave.
Check the source
Official information
Super and tax rules change. These primary sources are the right place to verify the details before you act.