What does stapling mean for employers?

Stapling was introduced for most Australian employers in 2021 as part of the government's Your Future, Your Super reform package.

However, WA public sector employers have been exempted from stapling. This is because GESB is the default fund for most of the WA public sector, and we work differently due to WA legislation.

The State Superannuation Act 2000 (the Act) restricted GESB from accepting employer contributions from non-public sector employers. This meant that stapling could not apply to us or our members without an amendment to both the Act and Regulations.

In 2024, the Act was amended to enable GESB to accept non-government employer contributions into a GESB Super account, allowing for the introduction of stapling in the future.

What is the stapling process?

Stapling intends to stop the creation of unintended multiple super accounts and the erosion of super balances by 'stapling' super to employees. This requires employers to pay the compulsory Superannuation Guarantee (SG) to a new employee's existing fund if they have one, unless they select an alternative.

If a new starter doesn't choose a fund, employers must apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to see if that employee has an existing fund. If they do, employers are required to pay into this stapled fund.

Stapling does not currently apply for WA public sector employers. Until it does, you need to continue to offer an ATO Choice form to new starters to capture their superannuation preferences.

When will stapling come into effect for WA public sector employers?

Stapling will be enabled for WA public sector employers at a future date to be announced.

We will keep you updated and help guide you in the implementation of stapling.

Where can I find more information?

More information about the super reform package can be found in the Your Future, Your Super factsheet.

If you have any questions about your contributions, contact your Relationship Manager.