Further to Moores’ recent article (here) detailing extensions to the JobKeeper Scheme (among other Fair Work Act reforms), the ATO has relaxed a series of deadlines that are relevant to an employer’s eligibility to receive JobKeeper payments in 2021.
As a reminder, the second JobKeeper payment extension period will commence from Monday 4 January 2021, covering JobKeeper fortnights up to Sunday 28 March 2021. For this period:
- Employers that are eligible for the second JobKeeper extension will need to complete a new decline in turnover test; and
- The fortnightly JobKeeper payment rates will decrease from $1,200 to $1,000 (tier 1 employees), and $750 to $650 (tier 2 employees) respectively.
From 4 January 2021 until 28 March 2021, the decline in turnover test will be satisfied if current GST turnover for the quarter ending 31 December 2020 has declined by the specified shortfall percentage (15%, 30% or 50%, depending on the nature and size of the organisation) in comparison to GST turnover for the quarter ending 31 December 2019.
If you are otherwise new to the JobKeeper scheme, your business can still enrol to participate in the remaining fortnights.
In light of the busy Christmas/New Year period (and catering for increased leave entitlements accessed during this period), the ATO has announced it will give businesses more time to meet their JobKeeper obligations.
A summary of important deadlines are summarised below:
- 4 January 2021 – Wage Condition Due
- For JobKeeper fortnight 20 (21 December 2020 to 3 January 2021), the ATO will allow eligible employers until 4 January 2020 to satisfy the wage condition for eligible employees.
- 28 January 2021 – Business Monthly Declarations Due
- Eligible employers can complete their business monthly declaration from 4 January 2021, to be reimbursed for payments made to eligible employees between 23 November 2020 and 3 January 2021.
- 31 January 2021 – Further Wage Condition Due (Fortnights 21 & 22)
- For JobKeeper fortnights 21 and 22 (starting 4 January 2021 and 18 January 2021), eligible employers will have until 31 January 2021 to meet the wage conditions for their eligible employees.
More information about the key dates for the JobKeeper scheme (and extensions) can be found here.
How we can help
Moores is continuing to support many employers navigating the complex requirements of the JobKeeper Scheme and JobKeeper eligibility. If you’d like to understand your rights, responsibilities and options in light of the JobKeeper extension, please do not hesitate to contact us.