Laws that regulate taxation and payroll in Australia appear complicated, but in many ways are comparable to those of other countries. In order to compensate employees correctly and remain compliant with taxation...
Read MoreLaws that regulate taxation and payroll in Australia appear complicated, but in many ways are comparable to those of other countries. In order to compensate employees correctly and remain compliant with taxation and payroll rules, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the nation's regulations.
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Laws that regulate taxation and payroll in Australia appear complicated, but in many ways are comparable to those of other countries. In order to compensate employees correctly and remain compliant with taxation and payroll rules, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s regulations.
Australia operates under a pay-as-you-go system. This means that employers must withhold employee taxes, which should be paid to the government.
You could potentially pay payroll taxes on benefits and superannuation — Australia’s retirement fund — in addition to wages. Every state levies their own payroll tax on employers once the annual payroll reaches a certain level (this is determined on a state-by-state basis). The percentage of this state tax varies by state but is generally between 4.5% to 7%. Employers must also give 11% of employees’ ordinary time earnings (OTE) to superannuation.
Companies that expand to Australia, have different payroll options to choose from:
You cannot hire or pay employees without first setting up a subsidiary in Australia or working with an employer of record. Setting up a subsidiary can take months and could slow down the hiring process. Once you get set up, you’ll also need to establish at least one local bank account. The majority of employees in Australia are paid electronically through bank transfers.
Australia’s tax laws state that all employees must receive a pay slip within 1 working day of payment. This slip can be paper or electronic. The most common pay cycles are 12, 26, and 52, which you should keep in mind when setting up the frequency of pay.
Employees are entitled to time off work including national and state public holidays, annual leave, and community service leave. Employers also need to give employees 10 days of personal/carer’s/sick leave as needed.
The best way to establish termination terms is through a strong employment contract that sets a notice period and outlines any severance pay employees are entitled to.
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THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). G-P does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect G-P’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. G-P makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.
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