The real cost of payroll errors: why prevention is cheaper than correction

Payroll errors are often seen as minor administrative issues—until they escalate into costly, time-consuming problems. A single mistake in payroll can result in financial penalties, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. Yet, many organisations still underestimate the importance of proactive payroll governance. By the time an error is identified and corrected, the cost is often […]

AustralianSuper fined $27 million after ASIC investigation into failing to merge multiple superannuation accounts

AustralianSuper, the trustee of Australia’s largest superannuation fund, will pay a $27 million penalty after the Federal Court today found that it failed to merge multiple member accounts. The Court held this to be a breach of the fundamental duties and obligations AustralianSuper owed to its members, and that it was inexcusable for Australian Super […]

Hairdressing salon operators face court for alleged failure to pay unfair dismissal compensation

The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against the operators of two hair dressing salons in western Sydney for allegedly failing to comply with a Fair Work Commission order to pay compensation to an unfairly dismissed teenage worker. Facing court are Hair & Co Pty Ltd, which operates the ‘Hair & Co’ salons at […]

Why data privacy should be a priority for payroll professionals

Payroll data is among the most sensitive information an organisation holds, containing everything from personal details to salary information, tax records, and bank account numbers. For payroll managers, safeguarding this data is not just a matter of compliance but a fundamental responsibility to both employees and the organisation. With open plan offices and hybrid working […]

Understanding payroll calculations: 52 vs. 52.14 weeks

Payroll professionals frequently encounter confusion when calculating pay and leave accruals due to the difference between a 52-week year and a 52.14-week year. While it may seem like a minor distinction, using the wrong figure can result in miscalculations that affect salary payments, leave entitlements, and overall payroll compliance. This article explains when to use […]

The importance of accurate employee information in payroll

Maintaining accurate employee address information in payroll systems is more than just an administrative task—it is essential for compliance, correct payroll tax calculations, and Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Errors in address details can lead to incorrect tax obligations, compliance risks, and administrative burdens for payroll teams. Beyond local […]

Securing a training budget for your payroll team: how to make your case

Payroll is one of the most complex and high risk functions in any organisation. Yet, despite the ever changing compliance landscape, many payroll teams struggle to secure the necessary budget for ongoing training. Without regular professional development, organisations risk payroll errors, non-compliance penalties, and inefficiencies that could be avoided with the right investment in training. […]

Hamilton Island operators sign Enforceable Undertaking

The companies responsible for the operation of Hamilton Island in Queensland have back-paid staff more than $28.1 million and have signed an Enforceable Undertaking (EU) with the Fair Work Ombudsman. Hamilton Island Enterprises Limited (HIE) operates a range of accommodation businesses on Hamilton Island, as well as ancillary businesses including the marina, airport, retail stores, […]

Determining an employee vs a contractor: key considerations for payroll professionals

The distinction between an employee and a contractor is a critical determination for payroll professionals. Misclassification can lead to severe legal and financial repercussions, including back payment of wages, superannuation, penalties, and reputational damage. While the distinction may seem straightforward, the reality is far more nuanced. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this often […]

Payroll Manager pleads guilty to two counts of fraud by an employee

A gambling addict has been jailed after taking hundreds of thousands from his Brisbane employers, punted away more than half a million of it as “the bright lights of the casino and poker machines” mitigated his anxiety, a court has heard. Former payroll manager Brendan Wayne Dodd on Wednesday pleaded guilty to two counts of […]

Rod Wallace

02:49 02 Jun 20

A quick professional response to clarify a payroll issue that always has concerned me

Audrey Cahill

01:20 06 May 20

The team at APA are extremely knowledgeable, very friendly and keen to assist in a prompt efficient manner - every time!

Michele Southam

01:41 29 Apr 20

Accurate and timely information imparted in a completely no nonsense manner.Even complex matters are presented so that all can be understood with practical details that assist easy implementation.

Rosemary Harrison

02:46 27 Apr 20

The assistance that Tracy has provided during the COVID 19 crisis is outstanding! Free webinars to us, still cost you to produce and we are grateful.

Ingrid Ramona Onciu

01:33 27 Apr 20

I found a lot of information I needed in the Jobkeeper webinar. Thank you for this. Great presentation!

Jo Regina

21:20 27 Feb 20

Amazing Payroll Leadership Conference lead by Tracy. Its fantastic to get like minded people in the same room where we can learn and share our experience and bounce off each other. One of the best events I have been to.

Anne Davis

03:01 13 Sep 18

I have had the privilege of meeting and dealing with Tracy, Maria, Andy and the team at APA for many years. I would encourage anyone who deals with payroll to sign up as a member. Take advantage of the training courses on offer. Maria is a fantastic trainer and has the ability to break down legislation and awards into a presentation that everyone can understand.

Rosa Yoon

00:24 11 Sep 18

It was the best decision our business made when we joined the Australian Payroll Association 5 years ago. Tracy and the team are humbling, professional and maintains high integrity in all the areas of payroll. It's your payroll one-stop shop.

Sandi Boorn

03:03 09 Sep 18

Highly recommend Tracy and team. They continue to keep us up to speed with all legislative changes. Email newsletter is very informative. Thank you for your professional service.

Anthony Jakovcevic

04:11 08 Sep 18

Highly recommend Tracy and team. They continue to keep us up to speed with all legislative changes. Webinars and presentation documents are very useful. Thank you for your professional service.

Fumiko WALTON

01:11 03 Sep 18

The class was very flexible to follow the attendance needs even we have a text Book to follow. Some people were excited to discuss own problems. But some times caused run out the planned work time. In total impression was very good. Friendly and easy to rise the questions.

Dobrila Bijelic

00:19 03 Sep 18

Information was up to date (some of it literally hours old); concise and on topic. Maria is an entertaining and knowledgeable presenter.

Steph Francis

23:38 02 Sep 18

The End of Year Webinar was really helpful. It was a great opportunity to just refresh ourselves on those 'once a year' tasks and be sure that we were up to date with any changes to the payroll landscape throughout the year. The webinar format was perfect. It's a busy time of year for all and being able to remote in meant that the whole team could easily attend. Thanks for the invitation!!

CHLOE ASTON

23:20 02 Sep 18

Maria is fantastic! Very informative and runs an engaging seminar or class. The Australian Payroll Association are a great support to have.

AllyK Noble

22:56 02 Sep 18

absolutely worth every minute spent , this was an experience that I didn't think I needed after many years in payroll, but the networks built since the day were an added bonus. The day was informative and well set out.

YANWEN SU

07:44 01 Sep 18

It was a very useful and interesting training. Not borning at all, you can learn a lot in such a short time from the easily understandable material & listen opinions from experienced payroll staff from other companies.Definitely will attend next year. Hope the food will be better:)

Jenny Wann

06:59 01 Sep 18

Maria is the best teacher I have ever come across - she manages to keep 20 adults of varying capabilities totally absorbed during her classes - her knowledge of all things payroll is second to none! I just wish I could attend every class she teaches - I always come away much more informed but also wanting to learn more.

Jacquie Wells

02:36 30 Jul 18

Tracy Angwin is a true professional and the APA offers expertise, insight and thought leadership to the payroll industry.

Elizabeth Ristevski

11:02 28 Mar 18

The Australian Payroll Association is providing professional advice in line with the latest legislation. As a Payroll professional it is of an enormous importance to be a member of this organization and build on payroll knowledge and network with its members.It is a must attend the Yearly Payroll Conference, where members attend various workshops from termination payments to superannuation updates, guest speakers from the ATO & speakers from various Payroll Software providers. Attendees receive updates on upcoming legislative changes, network with colleagues from different industries & enjoy great food and beverages.As part of the company is the recruitment department lead by Andy Thompson. As a recruiter Andy knows the payroll scope in great details. He educates its clients about payroll and at the same time is helping payroll professionals to attain roles best fitting of candidate expectations.Wishing the team at the Australian Payroll Association many years of growth and successIt is time to ascend the payroll profession where it belongs

Jane Barker

22:46 26 Mar 18

APA membership is worth every cent! It's great to have competent people to answer all queries relating to payroll. The service is immediate and thorough. The weekly newsletters and member portal are very informative and keep me up to date.

Josh Biasia

20:05 26 Mar 18

APA are great to deal! A fantastic resource for any Payroll Department. I have also completed my Certificate IV in Payroll Administration with them and now looking to do the Diploma. If you ever get a chance to attend one of their conferences, I highly recommend - the likes of Tracey and Maria are very engaging and knowledgeable speakers.

Jeshna Sagun

06:19 26 Mar 18

Australian Payroll Association (APA) has been very instrumental in my career, specifically Andy Thompson. Andy has helped me get into the position that I'm currently in at one of the most reputable firms in Australia. He has always been very encouraging and supportive of me, and values my experience and skill set. He is one of my biggest advocates and helped steer me in the right direction with my career. I also use APA to assist with any ongoing payroll related advice that I need. Tracy and Maria are knowledge experts when it comes to all matters relating to Payroll. Whether it's advice about payroll vendors, or legislative and statutory obligations, they are always more than happy to assist and go above and beyond.

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