Paying super to backpackers

The ATO has issued the following reminders to employers, that backpackers on working holidays:

• are considered temporary residents, and are entitled to superannuation guarantee if they are paid $450 or more before tax in a calendar month; and
• who leave Australia can claim the super paid to them as a Departing Australia superannuation payment (‘DASP’), providing all requirements are met.

Anyone employing backpackers should:

• check they hold a valid visa using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (‘VEVO’) service;
• use the ATO’s Super guarantee eligibility decision tool to determine if they are eligible for super;
• offer them a choice of super fund if requested, and follow the same steps as for any other worker before they start working for the employer; and

advise them that they can start their DASP application13