The South African government has recently announced an increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW), effective from March 1, 2025. The new minimum wage has been adjusted from R27.58 to R28.79 per hour, marking a 4.4% increase. This adjustment aims to address the rising cost of living.
Key Points of the New Minimum Wage
Increased Rate: The NMW has been increased to R28.79 per hour for all workers, including domestic and farm workers.
Expanded Public Works Programme: Workers on this program will receive a minimum wage of R15.83 per hour, up from R15.16.
Impact on Workers and Employers
The increase in the minimum wage is expected to have a significant impact on both workers and employers. For workers, especially those in vulnerable sectors like domestic and farm workers, this increase may cause employers to potentially cut jobs.
This increase comes just before the Budget Speech where an increase in tax rates are expected and the removal of medical aid tax credits.
📅 4 November 2026: Public Holiday for Municipal Elections
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially declared Wednesday, 4 November 2026 a public holiday across South Africa to allow citizens to cast their votes in the municipal elections. The proclamation was gazetted earlier this month under the Public Holidays Act, ensuring employees nationwide have the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote. read more
September 16, 2026
When Your Bank Becomes Your Accountant, Auditor, and Gatekeeper
South African small businesses are facing a new reality: SARS has given banks the authority to monitor tax refunds and even hold them back if they suspect fraud. On the surface, this sounds like a safeguard. But combined with another trend - the rise of banks offering accounting and payroll software - it creates a dangerous concentration of power. read more
