The Hidden Rule That Could Cost You Big: Why You Must Send Payslips Within 1 Day
- Marketing Manager
- May 23
- 2 min read
Think payroll compliance is just about paying your team on time? Think again. Fair Work Australia requires that employers issue payslips within 1 working day of payment—no exceptions, even if the employee is on leave.
That’s not a guideline. That’s the law.
Think a Late Payslip Isn’t a Big Deal?
Here’s What Really Happens If You Get It Wrong
Delays can trigger audits if employee complain, and that could result in serious fines—even for small slip-ups. In fact, many small businesses are caught off guard during checks by Fair Work.
Payslips are proof that you're doing the right thing. Without them, you're exposed.
Payslips protect both you and your team. They show:
What was paid, and when
How super was calculated
What deductions were made
That you’re following Fair Work and ATO laws
Most Aussie Businesses Miss These Payslip Must-Haves
What You Must Include (No Exceptions)
According to the ATO and Fair Work, your payslip must show:
Employer & employee names
Date of payment & pay period
Gross & net pay
Hourly rate & hours worked (if applicable)
All deductions (including tax & salary sacrifice)
Super contribution amount + fund name
If you’re missing any of these? You’re non-compliant.
The #1 Mistake Small Business Owners Make
Relying on Manual Payslip Systems
If you’re sending payslips manually—or forgetting them altogether—you're taking a massive risk.
Why this matters: Most breaches don’t come from bad intent. They come from being busy, running lean, or assuming your bookkeeper has it covered.
Quick Fix = Instant Compliance
Automate Your Payslips and Sleep Better at Night
A cloud-based payroll system can issue compliant payslips automatically on pay day. No manual clicks. No room for error. No stress when the ATO comes knocking.
Not Sure If You’re Compliant?
Here’s Your Next Step
Don’t wait for a Fair Work complaint or audit. Start with a quick self-check:
And remember: sharing this with your team or bookkeeper could save your business thousands.
Comments