The ATO says that it has used new powers known as Superannuation Guarantee Estimates (SGE) to recover $8 million in worker’s superannuation from the operators of labour-hire companies which have engaged in 'phoenix behaviour'.

Phoenix behaviour involves the deliberate liquidation of companies to avoid paying superannuation obligations, as well as to avoid other tax liabilities, and to avoid paying creditors and suppliers.

In this case, the network of companies provided labour-hire services such as seasonal fruit picking and meat packing, and had been failing to pay workers their superannuation entitlements.