Australian compliance technology firm WRKR Limited has announced a definitive agreement to acquire payroll compliance platform PaidRight Holdings in an all-share transaction valued at approximately USD$7.6 million. This strategic move, revealed to the Australian Securities Exchange, signals a significant expansion for WRKR beyond its core superannuation services into the broader payroll compliance market. The acquisition is poised to create a comprehensive regulatory technology solution for Australian businesses, aiming to simplify and enhance accuracy across the entire pay cycle.
A Strategic Leap into Payroll Compliance
The acquisition is a cornerstone of WRKR’s “Phase 2” growth strategy, immediately accelerating its entry into the complex field of payroll compliance. By integrating PaidRight’s sophisticated technology, WRKR aims to offer a unified platform that addresses both superannuation and wage payment obligations. This combination of two complementary Australian-built solutions is intended to transform compliance for millions of employers and workers by making it more accurate and effortless.
Management from both companies highlighted the potential for significant market impact by merging WRKR’s scale and reach with PaidRight’s innovative technology. The combined entity will be better positioned to service employers transitioning onto the WRKR platform through its existing channels. This synergy is expected to provide a robust, forward-looking solution for the proactive, real-time wage accuracy essential for meeting modern employer obligations.
Transaction Details and Shareholder Approval
Under the terms of the binding agreement, WRKR will acquire 100% of PaidRight’s issued capital through an all-scrip deal. PaidRight shareholders will be issued 90,909,091 new shares in WRKR, representing approximately 4.8% of the company’s current issued capital. The valuation is based on a WRKR share price of A$0.125, which was the 20-day volume-weighted average price as of December 18, 2025.
The transaction is contingent upon receiving WRKR shareholder approval at a general meeting scheduled for late January 2026. An Independent Expert’s Report will be provided to shareholders to assess whether the deal is fair and reasonable for non-associated parties. This step is crucial for governance, particularly given the leadership overlap between the two companies, ensuring a transparent and equitable process for all stakeholders involved.
Harnessing Advanced Compliance Technology
PaidRight brings a powerful, proven technology engine developed from research at CSIRO’s Data61 and PwC Ventures. Its platform utilizes advanced, logic-based artificial intelligence to interpret Australia’s complex wage laws and awards, a significant challenge for standard payroll systems. Having already processed $10 billion in wages for some of the nation's largest employers, the technology provides a strong foundation for WRKR’s expanded service offering.
Integration Strategy and Market Outlook
WRKR plans a phased integration, initially operating PaidRight as a standalone entity to ensure continuity while focusing on its primary superannuation platform transitions. The company has allocated between $1 million and $1.3 million from a recent capital raise to fund product development, growth, and integration costs. The commercial launch of a fully integrated WRKR-PaidRight solution is targeted for the third quarter of 2026.
Navigating Leadership Overlap
To maintain robust corporate governance, the company has addressed a potential conflict of interest involving WRKR CEO Trent Lund, who was a co-founder of PaidRight. An independent board committee, excluding Mr. Lund, has been formed to oversee all matters related to the transaction. This measure ensures that the evaluation and subsequent approval process are conducted with the utmost impartiality and in the best interests of all shareholders.
Ultimately, this acquisition represents a transformative step for WRKR, positioning it as a formidable force in Australia's burgeoning regulatory technology sector. By combining its established superannuation compliance platform with PaidRight's cutting-edge payroll engine, the company is set to deliver a unique, end-to-end compliance solution. The move promises to create substantial value for Australian businesses by simplifying complex obligations and ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time.