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Is superannuation paid on workers compensation?

Superannuation is a compulsory retirement savings plan in Australia. Workers compensation is a government program that provides financial assistance to injured or ill employees.

In general, superannuation is not payable while an employee is receiving workers compensation payments. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. This blog post will explain the key exceptions to when superannuation is payable on workers compensation.

How does Superannuation work?

Superannuation is a compulsory retirement savings plan in Australia. Employers must contribute at least 11% of an employee’s salary to their superannuation fund. Employees can also make voluntary contributions to their superannuation fund.

Superannuation funds invest the money contributed by employees and employers. The money in superannuation funds can grow over time through investment returns.

Superannuation is generally not accessible until you reach retirement age, which is currently 67 years old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as if you are terminally ill or need to withdraw to purchase a first home.

The Australian government provides a range of tax benefits for Superannuation, such as tax deductions for contributions and tax-free growth of superannuation savings.

How does workers compensation work?

Workers compensation is a government program that provides financial assistance to injured or ill employees. It is designed to help employees cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with their injuries or illnesses.

 To be eligible for workers compensation, your injury or illness must have occurred during employment and was due to the work. The employee is not required to prove that their employer was negligent to be eligible for benefits.

 The amount of workers compensation benefits an employee receives depends on the severity of their injury or illness. In general, employees receive two types of benefits:

  • Weekly payments: These payments are intended to replace the employee’s lost wages. The amount of the weekly payments is based on the employee’s pre-injury wage.
  • Medical Expenses: These payments are intended to cover the cost of the employee’s medical treatment, including hospitalisation, surgery, and rehabilitation.

In addition to weekly payments and medical expenses, workers compensation may also provide other benefits, such as:

  • Lump sum payments: These payments are made to employees with a permanent impairment due to injury or illness.
  • Rehabilitation services: These services are designed to help the employee return to work.
  • Death benefits: These benefits are paid to the family of an employee killed in a work-related accident.

The State government sets these general regulations for workers compensation. These regulations vary from state to state, but they generally include:

  • Employees are required to report their injuries or illnesses to their employer as soon as possible.
  • Employers are required to provide their employees with workers compensation insurance.
  • Employees are entitled to a fair and impartial hearing if their claim for workers compensation is denied.

Is Superannuation paid on workers compensation?

In general, Superannuation is not payable on workers compensation because workers compensation is designed to replace lost wages and cover medical expenses. Superannuation is not intended to cover these costs.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. Superannuation may be payable if the employee is covered by a modern award or enterprise agreement that specifies that Superannuation is still to be paid while on workers compensation. Most modern awards provide that superannuation must be paid when you are off work on a work-related illness and you remain employed.

You can review if your Modern Award allows for superannuation here.

Are there any exceptions?

Here are some exceptions for when Superannuation is payable on workers compensation:

  • Modern awards: Some modern awards specify that superannuation is still to be paid while on workers compensation. You must look at the modern award that applies to you and see if superannuation is payable. For example, the Building and Construction Industry Award 2020 requires employers to pay Superannuation to employees receiving workers compensation payments. 
  • Enterprise Agreements: Some enterprise agreements also specify that superannuation is still to be paid while on workers compensation. For example, the Enterprise Agreement for the Retail Industry in New South Wales requires employers to pay superannuation to employees receiving workers compensation payments. 

 Here are some other examples of specific awards and enterprise agreements that require super to be paid while on workers compensation:

  • Manufacturing Award
  • Hospitality Award
  • Cleaning Industry Award 

You can check here to see if your award allows payment of Superannuation.

How to check if you’re eligible to receive superannuation while on workers compensation.

Here are the steps on how to find out if your award or enterprise agreement requires super to be paid while on workers compensation:

  1. Check your award agreement: The first step is to check your modern award or enterprise agreement to see if it specifies that superannuation is still to be paid while on workers compensation. You can find your award or agreement on the Fair Work Commission website.
  2. Contact your employer: If you are unsure whether your award or agreement requires super to be paid while on workers compensation, you should contact your employer. They should be able to provide you with a copy of your award or agreement or tell you whether superannuation is payable in your case.
  3. Contact the workers compensation insurer: If you are still unsure whether you are entitled to superannuation payments while on workers compensation, you should contact the insurer. They will be able to advise you on your entitlements under the law.

Additionally, you can contact your union for assistance if you are a union member. You can also search for information on the websites of the Fair Work Commission and the Australian Taxation Office.

Garling & Co Lawyers Top Tips

  • Keep good records: Keep all your medical records, receipts for medical expenses, and any other documentation related to your injury or illness. This will be helpful if you need to dispute your claim or if you need to apply for benefits, such as disability insurance.
  • Follow your doctor’s orders: It is best to follow your doctor’s orders to recover as quickly as possible. This may include taking medication, getting physical therapy or resting.
  • Report any changes in your condition: If your condition changes, report it to your doctor and lawyer. This will help ensure you receive the appropriate best care possible.
  • Ask questions: If you have any questions about your workers compensation claim, ask your doctor, IRO, or a lawyer.
  • Be patient: The workers compensation process can be slow and frustrating. Be patient and persistent, and don’t give up.

Thank you for reading our article. We hope it helped your understanding of Superannuation and Workers Compensation. Should you have any further questions, please contact our office at (02) 8329 9500 or complete a free case assessment here.

Garling & Co Lawyers

Matthew Garling

Matthew Garling is an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law approved by New South Wales Law Society. He is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia. Matthew is also a member of...
Shaylee C.
09:54 27 Mar 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Garling and Co on my case, and I must say that their service was truly outstanding. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, they... displayed unwavering dedication and professionalism.The outcome of my case exceeded my expectations, and I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and diligence exhibited by Garling and Co. I have no hesitation in recommending this law firm to my family and friends, knowing that they will receive the same level of exceptional service.- Traceyread more
Simona M.
05:11 26 Mar 24
Emma and Rebecca have looked after my husband's workers compensation claim over the last 3 years now. We have had positive outcomes from these claims and are now pursuing a work injury damages claim.... They have been amazing to deal with. They are genuine and empathetic over what has been a very stressful time for myself and my family over these last 3 years. Nothing is ever too much for Emma and Rebecca and they are always available to communicate with. We would highly recommend Garling and Co! Thank you Emma and Rebecca.read more
Donelle L.
01:16 26 Mar 24
So very happy with the service Garling has provided the care and help has eased a lot of worry I had when going through this process . Many thanks to the entire team
S R.
06:56 04 Mar 24
Thank you Garling and Co,For all your help and support, with myself and family going through a very tough process, physically and mentally. The compassion and comfort I've felt, with Garling and Co... representing me, has felt like family.I would highly recommend them, to anyone who is dealing with a Workers Comp issue. They have made a very tough road and process, a very reassuring and secure one, with great communication skills and negotiating to the highest level.Thank you to all the Garling and Co team, I'll be forever grateful, for all your assistance throughout this process.Kind regards, Scottread more
Kimberly B.
23:14 14 Feb 24
Mathew is very knowledgable and has been of great assistance to me. All the staff are friendly and helpful. I'm so happy I found this firm.Thank you Mathew and team for your great work in my case.... I am 100% happy with what you achieved for me.read more
Julie M.
10:16 16 Jan 24
My last stage of Workers compensation claim was managed by Emma Perkins, Natasha Stojanovic, Rebecca Dunshea and Kelli Robinson at Garling and Co. Lawyers who went the extra mile with their service... from the beginning to the end of 3 years of my case. I have become very anxious with almost everything after a workplace injury and a lot of times I probably ask more questions than I need to, but Emma Perkins always finds clear answers to my questions in a short time and explains to me patiently even using her mealtime or between her meeting and make me feel that I have been very well take care and supported. I am so grateful and extremely satisfied. The excellent service, attitude, and culture of Metthew Garling and his team are second to none with a very high success rate. If you going to battle with your workplace injury for a short or long period, you are better off with Garling and Co. lawyers who are able back you up every step of the way. I strongly recommend it to anybody who needs their service like me. Julieread more
patrick P.
01:46 19 Dec 23
I like to say that I had a very wonderful experience,And the support, and also understanding with all my requests,I could not ask for a better team!Thank you Emma and also her assistant Rebecca... thank youread more
Kazi H.
13:38 13 Dec 23
Work cover fund is GOVT’S money but insurer think that it is from their 14th generation. So only they can have it. Not only that, people from the work, IME doctor from insurer, back to work... coordinator from work, Rehab provider from any side push the worker as hard as possible that the worker (doesn’t matter how the workers mental or psychical condition) either go back to his pre injury duty or leave the job.More over on that very bumpy any difficult journey some of them only treat the worker as a MONEY MAKING MECHINE .in some point worker feels like, no rooms to breath. On that moment need someone to support legally, someone to care, someone to relive.On my case I believe that, somehow, I manage to make my God happy. That’s why God sends me to Matthew Gerling and his team Allison, Rebecca and Nathan, and all of GARLING & co Lawyers.I am not good enough in English, can’t express my gratitude.Matthew, Allison, Rebecca and Nathan, please accept my appreciation and pass it to others.read more
Carol L.
01:32 29 Nov 23
Professional, understanding and friendly
Sean G.
23:21 14 Nov 23
Matthew Garling and everyone I spoke to at Garling and Co were kind, caring and compassionate. They were sensitive to my psychological condition and were patient in explaining everything to me, so... that I clearly understood the legal process. I am exceptionally grateful for the settlement outcome that Garling and Co obtained for me. Many thanks.read more
READ ALL TESTIMONIALS

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Shaylee C.
09:54 27 Mar 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Garling and Co on my case, and I must say that their service was truly outstanding. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, they... displayed unwavering dedication and professionalism.The outcome of my case exceeded my expectations, and I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and diligence exhibited by Garling and Co. I have no hesitation in recommending this law firm to my family and friends, knowing that they will receive the same level of exceptional service.- Traceyread more
Simona M.
05:11 26 Mar 24
Emma and Rebecca have looked after my husband's workers compensation claim over the last 3 years now. We have had positive outcomes from these claims and are now pursuing a work injury damages claim.... They have been amazing to deal with. They are genuine and empathetic over what has been a very stressful time for myself and my family over these last 3 years. Nothing is ever too much for Emma and Rebecca and they are always available to communicate with. We would highly recommend Garling and Co! Thank you Emma and Rebecca.read more
Donelle L.
01:16 26 Mar 24
So very happy with the service Garling has provided the care and help has eased a lot of worry I had when going through this process . Many thanks to the entire team
S R.
06:56 04 Mar 24
Thank you Garling and Co,For all your help and support, with myself and family going through a very tough process, physically and mentally. The compassion and comfort I've felt, with Garling and Co... representing me, has felt like family.I would highly recommend them, to anyone who is dealing with a Workers Comp issue. They have made a very tough road and process, a very reassuring and secure one, with great communication skills and negotiating to the highest level.Thank you to all the Garling and Co team, I'll be forever grateful, for all your assistance throughout this process.Kind regards, Scottread more
Kimberly B.
23:14 14 Feb 24
Mathew is very knowledgable and has been of great assistance to me. All the staff are friendly and helpful. I'm so happy I found this firm.Thank you Mathew and team for your great work in my case.... I am 100% happy with what you achieved for me.read more
Julie M.
10:16 16 Jan 24
My last stage of Workers compensation claim was managed by Emma Perkins, Natasha Stojanovic, Rebecca Dunshea and Kelli Robinson at Garling and Co. Lawyers who went the extra mile with their service... from the beginning to the end of 3 years of my case. I have become very anxious with almost everything after a workplace injury and a lot of times I probably ask more questions than I need to, but Emma Perkins always finds clear answers to my questions in a short time and explains to me patiently even using her mealtime or between her meeting and make me feel that I have been very well take care and supported. I am so grateful and extremely satisfied. The excellent service, attitude, and culture of Metthew Garling and his team are second to none with a very high success rate. If you going to battle with your workplace injury for a short or long period, you are better off with Garling and Co. lawyers who are able back you up every step of the way. I strongly recommend it to anybody who needs their service like me. Julieread more
patrick P.
01:46 19 Dec 23
I like to say that I had a very wonderful experience,And the support, and also understanding with all my requests,I could not ask for a better team!Thank you Emma and also her assistant Rebecca... thank youread more
Kazi H.
13:38 13 Dec 23
Work cover fund is GOVT’S money but insurer think that it is from their 14th generation. So only they can have it. Not only that, people from the work, IME doctor from insurer, back to work... coordinator from work, Rehab provider from any side push the worker as hard as possible that the worker (doesn’t matter how the workers mental or psychical condition) either go back to his pre injury duty or leave the job.More over on that very bumpy any difficult journey some of them only treat the worker as a MONEY MAKING MECHINE .in some point worker feels like, no rooms to breath. On that moment need someone to support legally, someone to care, someone to relive.On my case I believe that, somehow, I manage to make my God happy. That’s why God sends me to Matthew Gerling and his team Allison, Rebecca and Nathan, and all of GARLING & co Lawyers.I am not good enough in English, can’t express my gratitude.Matthew, Allison, Rebecca and Nathan, please accept my appreciation and pass it to others.read more
Carol L.
01:32 29 Nov 23
Professional, understanding and friendly
Sean G.
23:21 14 Nov 23
Matthew Garling and everyone I spoke to at Garling and Co were kind, caring and compassionate. They were sensitive to my psychological condition and were patient in explaining everything to me, so... that I clearly understood the legal process. I am exceptionally grateful for the settlement outcome that Garling and Co obtained for me. Many thanks.read more
University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
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University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
The law society of nsw professional standards scheme logo.
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