Some modern awards have been updated as part of the Fair Work Commission’s review of superannuation clauses to update and correct the names of default superannuation funds listed in award superannuation clauses.

These updates are relevant in default fund scenarios, for example, where an employee does not nominate a fund and does not have a stapled fund. In those cases, employers may use the default fund specified in the relevant award (where the employee is award-covered).

Importantly, this does not change Super Guarantee contribution rates or thresholds, and it does not change the choice-of-fund and stapled fund rules. It is primarily an administrative update so award documents reflect current fund names.

Why this matters

If super is paid into a fund that does not align with the applicable default pathway (for example, the award default fund where that applies), this may create compliance issues over time, even where contribution amounts are otherwise correct.

In practice, many employers will find that:

  • Their current payroll setup already aligns with the correct default fund, or

  • A simple confirmation is all that is required

A practical note: where an employee has a stapled super fund, employers generally need to pay contributions to that stapled fund if the employee does not choose another fund, even if the stapled fund is not listed in the award.

What employers should be aware of

Employers covered by modern awards should ensure that:

  • The correct modern award has been identified for each employee

  • Payroll and onboarding records reflect the default super fund listed in that award

  • Award documentation is reviewed when updates are issued

  • Processes exist to identify and pay to stapled funds for new starters where required

For most businesses, this does not require immediate changes, but awareness is important.

How this fits within your broader obligations

Superannuation compliance depends on accurate award interpretation and payroll setup. While this update is administrative in nature, it highlights the importance of keeping award references current.

Where questions arise, employers should review their award coverage and payroll configuration, or seek advice to confirm alignment.