As the cost of living rises, so does the urgency for fair wages. In 2025, the South African government has officially announced a minimum wage increase to ensure that workers across the country are better equipped to meet their daily expenses.
Whether you’re a full-time employee, domestic worker, or involved in public works, this change directly affects your take-home pay.
Let’s break down what the new minimum wage means, who benefits, and how much more you should be earning.
What Is the New Minimum Wage in 2025?
Effective 1 March 2025, South Africa’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) has increased from R27.58 to R28.79 per ordinary hour worked. This marks a 4.38% increase, offering a financial uplift for millions of workers.
This update applies to most industries and job roles, ensuring wage fairness across the board.
What About Domestic and Sectoral Workers?
While the NMW covers general employees, certain sectors have tailored minimum wage rates based on the nature of the work. Here’s what you need to know:
| Worker Category | 2024 Rate (R/hour) | 2025 Rate (R/hour) |
|---|---|---|
| General Workers (NMW) | R27.58 | R28.79 |
| Domestic Workers | R27.58 | R28.79 |
| EPWP (Public Works) Workers | R15.16 | R15.83 |
| Contract Cleaning (Metro Areas) | R30.30 | R31.69 |
| Contract Cleaning (Other Areas) | R27.00 | R28.89 |
If you’re a domestic worker, this means you should now be earning around R5,600 monthly based on a standard 45-hour workweek. For EPWP workers, the updated rate ensures ongoing support for those contributing to national development.
Who Must Comply?
All employers across South Africa, including households employing domestic workers, are required to comply with the new wage structure. This includes:
- Full-time employers
- Part-time and temporary job providers
- Government and public-sector programs
- Businesses across all provinces
Employers who fail to implement these changes may face financial penalties, including fines and legal action.
Why Was the Wage Increased?
The annual wage adjustment is meant to:
- Align wages with inflation and economic performance
- Improve the standard of living for low-income earners
- Promote wage equality across sectors
- Provide consistency for contract and temporary workers
The increase is also part of a broader push to ensure fair and livable wages in both urban and rural communities.
What Should Workers Do Next?
If you’re a worker:
- Check your payslip to ensure the new rate is being applied
- Speak to your employer or HR department if you’re unsure about your wage rate
- Keep a record of your hours worked and wages received
If you’re an employer:
- Update your payroll system to reflect the new hourly rates
- Review employment contracts for compliance
- Communicate clearly with employees about wage adjustments
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wage Effective Date | 1 March 2025 |
| General Hourly Wage | R28.79 |
| Domestic Worker Wage | R28.79/hour (approx. R5,600/month) |
| Public Works Wage | R15.83/hour |
| Contract Cleaning (Metro) | R31.69/hour |
| Employer Responsibility | Mandatory compliance |
The 2025 minimum wage increase is a critical step forward in ensuring every worker in South Africa earns a fair, livable income. Whether you’re a cleaner in a metro city, a domestic worker in a small town, or part of a government work program, this wage boost is designed to help you keep up with rising costs.
Now is the time to double-check your payslip, talk to your employer, and make sure you’re getting what you rightfully deserve. After all, a fair wage is not just your right—it’s the law.
FAQs
Does this apply to part-time workers?
Yes. The minimum wage applies to all workers, including part-time, seasonal, and temporary employees.
What if my employer doesn’t pay the updated rate?
You can report the issue to the Department of Labour. Employers may face penalties for non-compliance.
Are domestic workers legally entitled to the full R28.79/hour?
Absolutely. Domestic workers must be paid at least R28.79 per hour, just like any other employee covered by the National Minimum Wage.