Latest Australian Payroll Survey Reveals Key Compliance Challenges for HR and Payroll

Payroll errors and compliance challenges are rapidly becoming major business risks, threatening financial stability, employee trust, and corporate reputation.

With increasingly complex legislation, particularly in industries governed by multiple industrial instruments, businesses face rising fines, inefficiencies, and workforce dissatisfaction. The need for a proactive payroll strategy has never been more urgent.

The Top Payroll Challenges in 2025

• Poor System Integration (23.6%) – Disconnected payroll and HR systems lead to inefficiencies and errors.
• Outdated Payroll Technology (22.3%) – Many businesses still rely on legacy payroll systems that fail to meet modern compliance demands.
• Difficulty Keeping Up with Legislation (19.9%) – Frequent changes in tax laws, superannuation, and wage compliance create ongoing challenges.
• Award and Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) Interpretation (15.6%) – Complex industrial agreements increase the risk of payroll miscalculations.
• Incomplete or Inaccurate Input Data (15.3%) – Errors in payroll input compromise pay accuracy and compliance.
• Under-Resourced Payroll Teams (12.1%) – A lack of payroll personnel results in overwork and increased risk of mistakes.
• Limited Reporting Tools (11.2%) – Inadequate payroll reporting affects compliance tracking and strategic insights.
• Frequent Ad-Hoc Payments (8.7%) – Unplanned payroll adjustments create administrative burdens.
• Lack of Payroll Training (7.1%) – Insufficient compliance training leaves payroll teams vulnerable to errors.
• Payroll Errors (6.5%) – Even minor mistakes can damage employee trust and business credibility.

The Need for a Continuous Payroll Compliance Strategy

To mitigate these risks, businesses must shift to a payroll operating model that ensures continuous compliance rather than reactive fixes. Payroll compliance should be a proactive priority, with businesses investing in:

• Integrated Payroll and HR Technology – A streamlined payroll system reduces errors and enhances efficiency.
• Compliance-Driven Payroll Training – Ongoing education ensures teams remain up to date with legislative changes.
• Automated Payroll Processes – Automation minimises manual errors and enhances accuracy.
• Strategic Payroll Governance – Payroll should be viewed as a strategic function, not just an administrative task.

Maintaining payroll compliance is no longer optional—it’s essential for business stability, workforce satisfaction, and long-term success. Organisations that fail to adapt could face financial penalties, reputational damage, and operational inefficiencies.

Download the 2025 Australian Payroll Industry Report

To stay ahead of payroll challenges and compliance risks, HR and payroll professionals must arm themselves with the latest industry insights. The 2025 Australian Payroll Industry Report provides a comprehensive overview of emerging payroll trends, legislative updates, and best practices for continuous compliance.

Download your copy today to gain the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving payroll landscape and future-proof your payroll operations.