As a Member of Nambawan Super, it is crucial to understand the various aspects of your Superannuation, including your Employer contributions. This page aims to shed light on what Members need to know about unpaid Employer contributions and how to handle such situations.

What are unpaid Employer contributions?

An Employer is required by law, under the Superannuation (General Provision) Act 2000 (the Act) and the Superannuation (Amendment) Regulation 2004, to remit a 6% deduction from their employees' salary as their employee's contribution paid after tax and 8.4% of their employee's salary as the Employer contribution to an Authorised Superannuation Fund (ASF) of PNG. The 8.4% is in addition to the employee's salary and is non-deductible.

An Employer is required to do this for their employees if the Employer has employed/engaged 15 or more employees. The Employer must remit the superannuation contributions for an employee if they have been continuously employed for three or more months.

Unpaid employer contributions refer to the 8.4% Employer contributions that your Employer is legally obligated to make on your behalf to your Nambawan Super account, but has failed to do so in a timely manner. Employers are required by law to remit these contributions within 14 days from when you receive your wages each fortnight.

If your Employer fails to remit these contributions within 14 days, then they may be prosecuted by the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) under Section 114 of the Act. The penalty for the offence is a fine of up to K500,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 10 years, or both a fine and imprisonment.

What causes unpaid Employer contributions?

Unpaid employer contributions can occur for various reasons, such as:

• Employer Financial Issues: Some Employers may face financial difficulties that prevent them from making timely contributions to your Superannuation account.
• Administrative Errors: Occasionally, contributions may be delayed or not processed due to administrative errors within your Employer's HR or payroll department.
• Unscrupulous Practices: In some cases, Employers may intentionally withhold or delay contributions, which is illegal and unethical.
• Change in Employment Status: If you switch jobs or have gaps in your employment, it can lead to unpaid contributions.

What are the consequences of unpaid Employer contributions?

Unpaid Employer contributions can have significant implications for your retirement savings and financial security. These consequences may include:

• Reduced Retirement Savings: Delays in contributions mean your savings grow at a slower rate, potentially leaving you with less money for retirement.
• Loss of Potential Earnings: The contributions are invested, and missed contributions can result in lost investment earnings over time.
• Legal and Compliance Issues: Employers who fail to contribute to your Superannuation account can face legal consequences and penalties.

What to do if you suspect unpaid contributions?

If you suspect that your Employer has not made the necessary contributions to your Nambawan Super account, here are the steps you should consider taking:

1. Review your statements: Regularly review your superannuation statements to ensure that contributions are being made as required. This can be easily and quickly done through the various digital platforms available to Members such as checking through the Online Member Portal, through the Nambawan Super Smart App (downloadable on Google Playstore or Apple App Store), by Supertext Balance check (dial *661*NSL Membership Number*PIN#) if you've registered for these services, or by emailing the Call Centre.
2. Communicate with your Employer: If you notice discrepancies or missing contributions, contact your Employer first to discuss the issue and seek resolution.
3. Contact Nambawan Super: If your Employer does not respond or fails to address the issue, reach out to Nambawan Super's Member services team via our Call Centre on our toll-free number 180 1599 or through email at CallCentre@nambawansuper.com.pg for guidance on what to do and assistance you may need.
4. Contact the Bank of PNG: Alternatively, you can contact the Bank of PNG Employer Contribution Enforcement Unit on 322 7270 or through email at slideceu@bankpng.gov.pg to understand your rights and explore potential legal actions.
5. Keep Records: Maintain records of all correspondence with your Employer, Nambawan Super, and the Bank of PNG, as this may be needed for any potential dispute resolution.

As a Nambawan Super Member, it is vital to stay informed about your Employer contributions and take action if you suspect unpaid contributions. Although you may be scared to raise this issue, keep in mind that your superannuation is a critical part of your financial future, and ensuring that contributions are made as required will help you secure a comfortable retirement. Your actions could also help your colleagues facing the same situation.

Always remember to communicate with your Employer and Nambawan Super to resolve any issues promptly.