As World Cup matches unfold across North America, global payroll operations continue behind the scenes around the clock. While fans follow late-night kick-offs and early morning fixtures, payroll teams across regions are already preparing for the next business day.
For activpayroll’s Australia team based in Perth, this time-zone position plays an important role in supporting global operations across APAC, the UK, and North America.
We spoke to Melanie Gaensler, Payroll Operations Manager – Australia, about the realities of managing payroll across regions, the impact of upcoming Payday Super changes, and why local expertise and strong teamwork remain critical in a global operating model.
“A lot of people don’t realise the varying time zones we already have within Australia,” says Mel. “Our east coast cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are two hours ahead of our west coast during winter and three hours ahead in summer. Even local operations can be interesting because of that.”
While Perth is often described as one of the world’s most geographically isolated cities, it plays a highly connected role in global payroll delivery.
“Our Perth office sits in a time zone that aligns well with APAC, overlaps with the UK during our afternoons, and depending on the region, also connects with the US at either the start or end of their day,” Mel explains.
This positioning allows activpayroll to support clients operating across multiple regions, ensuring continuity as work moves across time zones.
“Part of working globally is accepting that sometimes there will be early mornings or late calls, wherever you are based,” Mel adds. “But Australia’s time zones, particularly Perth, are extremely beneficial to running a global operation.”
For organisations operating in Australia, payroll compliance requires strong local knowledge and careful attention to detail.
Mel highlights three key areas employers need to be aware of:
Australia’s statutory leave entitlements are cumulative and do not expire.
“Unused annual leave is payable on termination, so it is essential that employers are accruing and recording this correctly,” Mel says.
Superannuation remains a critical employer responsibility in Australia.
“Superannuation is an employer cost and is governed by strict legislation regarding what earnings it applies to and when it must be paid,” explains Mel. “Many employers are also unaware of thresholds where liability may no longer apply once earnings exceed certain levels.”
Payroll tax obligations can vary depending on employee location.
“Employers may need to register for State Payroll Tax in each state where they have employees,” Mel notes. “This is separate from PAYG withholding and is calculated as a percentage of taxable wages.”
One of the most significant upcoming changes in Australia is the introduction of Payday Super.
“Payday Super is still an unfinalised piece of legislation,” says Mel. “While the core changes are known, there are still details that are yet to be fully legislated.”
The reform will require employers to review payroll processes, reporting, and cash flow planning.
“Employers should be strengthening onboarding processes, tightening reporting, and planning cash flow carefully to manage earlier superannuation payment requirements,” Mel explains.
She also highlights that the transition period may be particularly complex.
“July and August are likely to be challenging as employers may still be finalising June quarter payments under the existing rules while also preparing for new obligations under the updated system,” she adds.
Delivering payroll across multiple regions requires more than process consistency; it requires strong governance, communication, and confidence in compliance decisions.
“Our biggest challenge is ensuring the team can identify issues early and feel confident raising them,” Mel explains. “Just because something is accepted in one country does not mean it can be applied in another.”
She adds that accuracy and timeliness depend on well-designed processes, continuous improvement, and strong client collaboration.
“Processes are built from experience and refined over time. We learn from issues, review where they originated, and adapt accordingly,” she says.
“Timeliness is also a shared responsibility. Clients need to follow agreed payroll calendars so we can deliver accurately, with appropriate buffers built into the process where needed.”
Mel also reflects on how teamwork influences her approach to leadership.
“Exposure to team sports when growing up shapes how people view teamwork,” she says.
Her leadership style focuses on enabling others rather than directing from the front.
“I like to see my team grow in confidence, knowledge, and enjoyment of what they do. I will always support them from behind and work alongside them where needed,” she explains.
“A happy team member leads to happy clients, so it is a win on all fronts.”
As organisations continue to operate across borders, time zones, and increasingly complex regulatory environments, local expertise remains essential.
From supporting global payroll continuity to navigating upcoming legislative changes such as Payday Super, activpayroll’s Perth team plays a key role in helping clients operate confidently in Australia.
For further detailed guidance on payroll, employment law and compliance in Australia, visit our Australia Global Insights. If you require support in preparing for upcoming changes to superannuation arrangements in Australia, please use our Contact Us form and a member of our expert team will be happy to assist with your queries.