How to read an Australian payslip

A payslip looks complicated, but it only does a few things: show what you earned, what was withheld, and what you were paid.

Key lines

Gross pay is what you earn before anything is taken out. PAYG withholding is the income tax (and Medicare) your employer sends to the ATO for you. Net pay is what lands in your bank account. Super is shown separately because it is paid on top.

Why does my payslip differ from this calculator?

Employers use ATO withholding schedules, which spread tax evenly across the year. Your final tax is worked out when you lodge your return, so you may get a refund or a small bill. Other items, such as union fees, novated leases or salary packaging, can also change net pay.