General information only — not legal advice. First speak with your employer, then if unsuccessful contact Fair Work or an employment lawyer.
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Superannuation for Restaurant and Café Workers

Last updated: March 2026 · MA000119

All restaurant and café workers — including casuals — are entitled to superannuation at 12% of ordinary time earnings. Since November 2022, there is no minimum earnings threshold. If your employer isn't paying your super, they're breaking the law.

If you haven't checked your super fund recently — do it now.

The rule

Under the Superannuation Guarantee:

  • Rate: 12% of ordinary time earnings (as of 1 July 2025)
  • No minimum earnings threshold since November 2022
  • Applies to all employees: permanent, part-time, and casual
  • Must be paid at least quarterly (by the 28th day after quarter end)
  • Applies regardless of payment method (bank transfer or cash)

How to check

  • Step 1: Log into your super fund (or use myGov to find your fund)
  • Step 2: Check employer contributions for each quarter
  • Step 3: Compare contributions against 12% of your ordinary time earnings
  • Step 4: Check that contributions are being made at least quarterly

If contributions are missing, late, or lower than expected, your employer may not be meeting their obligations.

What this costs you

A casual Level 3 working 20 hours per week at $33.38/hr earns approximately $34,715.20 in ordinary time per year. At 12%, that's $4,165.82/year in super contributions your employer should be making. Over a 5-year period of missed super, that's over $20,829.10 in lost retirement savings — before accounting for investment returns.

What to do if super is missing

  • Raise it with your employer first — in writing
  • If not resolved, report to the ATO online or call 13 10 20
  • The ATO can investigate and recover unpaid super
  • Your employer may also be liable for a Super Guarantee Charge (SGC)

Frequently asked questions

Do casual workers get super?

Yes. Since November 2022, there is no minimum earnings threshold for super. All employees — including casuals — are entitled to superannuation at 12% of ordinary time earnings, regardless of how much they earn.

How often must my employer pay super?

Employers must pay super contributions at least quarterly — by the 28th day after the end of each quarter. Many employers pay more frequently (e.g., each pay cycle), but quarterly is the legal minimum.

Can I claim unpaid super?

Yes. If your employer hasn't been paying your super, you can report it to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The ATO can investigate and recover unpaid super on your behalf, including a charge for late payment.

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General information only. Verify at fairwork.gov.au.