April 2026 Newsletter
Contents:
- Most Australians Don’t Know Massive Payday Super Reform Is Coming
- Fuel price volatility: What Victorian business needs to know
- What you can own and earn in retirement while still qualifying for the pension changes today
- When can – and can’t – employers investigate and discipline workers?
- Beware of Misleading Company Renewal Invoices
- Announcements
Most Australians Don’t Know Massive Payday Super Reform Is Coming
The majority of Australians are startlingly unaware the biggest superannuation shake-up in decades is looming, including more than half of SME owners.
Exclusive data from Employment Hero’s Payday Super Shift: 2026 Employer Readiness Report found 4 in 5 employees and 58 per cent of business owners have never heard of the landmark Payday Super reforms, which come into effect in four months.
Fuel price volatility: What Victorian business needs to know
Escalating conflict in the Middle East is placing pressure on global fuel supplies and driving volatility in energy markets. Disruption to key shipping routes has pushed oil prices higher, with flow-on effects now being felt across Australia – including by Victorian businesses and households.
Global oil prices jumped to almost $120 per barrel as war broke out, up from around $60 at the start of the year, and have continued to fluctuate.
What you can own and earn in retirement while still qualifying for the pension changes today
How much you can own in assets and earn in wages and investment income, while still qualifying for the pension, changes today.
The changes are part of the latest round of indexation adjustments to keep payments aligned with inflation.
When can – and can’t – employers investigate and discipline workers?
Recent decisions from the Fair Work Commission (FWC) and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia highlight that employers are being held to increasingly high standards when managing employee issues.
Courts and tribunals are closely examining how decisions are made, not just why they are made.
Two recent cases provide important lessons for employers, especially when conducting workplace investigations or taking action that may significantly affect an employee.
Just announced
Fuel Excise Cut won’t make a difference to farmers
The Albanese government’s cut to the fuel excise “doesn’t make any difference” to the country’s primary producers amid widespread oil shortages.
To learn more
Junior wages abolished for adult workers
In a landmark ruling being hailed as a milestone for pay equity, the Fair Work Commission has moved to abolish junior pay rates for workers aged 18 to 20 across the retail, fast food, and pharmacy sectors. Handed down on 31 March 2026, the decision will see approximately 1.5 million employees transition to full adult minimum wages by December 2026.
To learn more
Beware of Misleading Company Renewal Invoices
We would like to bring an important matter to the attention regarding clients who have companies. We are aware that some clients have recently received correspondence that resembles an ASIC annual renewal invoice.
Please be aware that these are often sent by private, opportunistic organizations attempting to mimic official government documentation. While they may appear legitimate at first glance, they are typically unnecessary solicitations or services offered at a significantly higher cost than official fees.
Before making any payments, please consider the following:
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Check the Sender: ASIC invoices will generally come directly from ASIC or through our office if we act as your registered agent.
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Verify the Details: Look for your specific Corporate Key and official ASIC branding.
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Don’t Rush: These “invoices” often use urgent language to prompt a quick payment.
If you are at all unsure about the legitimacy of any invoice or correspondence you receive, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are happy to review the document for you to ensure you aren’t paying for unnecessary services.
Announcements:
This month Romy (9) from our Stawell office brings up a significant work anniversary, congratulations Romy! |
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Important ATO Dates
| Lodgement Program | Date |
| March monthly activity statements | 21/04/2026 |
| Quarter 3 (January–March) activity statements | 28/04/2026 |
| Quarter 3 (January–March) PAYG instalment notices | 28/04/2026 |
| Quarter 3 (January–March) GST instalment notices | 28/04/2026 |
| Quarter 3, (January–March) super guarantee contributions | 28/04/2026 |
Other News
From 1 July 2026, Payday Super will change how and when super is paid, how it’s reported to the ATO, and could have a noticeable impact on your cash flow if you’re not prepared.
Join us for practical guidance, expert insights, and clear next steps.
Why You Need to Attend
The move to “Payday Super” (PDS) isn’t just a date change—it’s a total shift in how you manage your business cashflow and compliance. We will address your main concerns around:
- Cashflow
- Compliance Risks
- Tech Integration
- Employee Reactions
Seminar Dates & Locations
Join us at a location near you. All sessions begin at 5:15 PM.
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Date |
Location |
Venue |
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Mon 20 April |
Stawell |
Swifts Football Club, North Park 1 Lamont Street |
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Mon 27 April |
Rupanyup |
Rupanyup Football Club, 21 Gibson Street |
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Wed 29 April |
Horsham |
Horsham Saints Football Club, Coughlin Park 14 Hamilton Street |
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Mon 4 May |
Ararat |
Ararat Football Club, Alexandra Oval |
What we’ll be covering:
The Fundamental Changes: Moving from OTE (Ordinary Time Earnings) to the new “Qualifying Earnings” concept.
Cashflow Management: Strategies to ensure you aren’t caught short on payday.
SBSCH Closure: What to do before the 30 June 2026 shutdown.
Compliance & Penalties: Understanding the “7-Day Rule” and how to stay in the ATO’s “Low Risk” zone.
Readiness Checklist: Practical steps to take with your payroll software (Xero, MYOB, etc.).
Integration: Aligning PDS with your existing Single Touch Payroll (STP) & employer obligations.
Secure Your Spot
Cost: It’s free!
RSVP: Bookings are required. Please register via email to mail@wattsprice.com.au or phone 5382 3001.