Labour Law

National Minimum Wage Increases in South Africa

South Africa’s Labour Law is notoriously known for being liberal and progressive. It is often misinterpreted as well, causing legal disputes between employers and employees. With the COVID-19 pandemic still at large, businesses are in an unprecedented situation to find a way around consistent physical human interaction and contact to conduct business. In some cases, businesses can utilise the internet for meetings and creating a digital storefront for their customers. However, some industries require manual labour, which creates its own set of unique challenges. As a result, several businesses have gone through drastic changes and restructures in an effort to prepare themselves for the challenges of 2021. We have also seen minor adjustments in South Africa’s Labour Law, with the latest adjustment made to the National Minimum Wage.

How Should a Business Approach the NMW?

Effective from 1 March 2021, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) in South Africa is increased from R20,76 to R21,69. According to the Department of Employment and Labour South Africa, it is illegal, and considered unfair labour practice, for an employer to unilaterally alter hours of work or other conditions of employment in implementing the NMW – an amount that is payable for ordinary work hours, thus excluding allowances for transport, tools, food, and accommodation. The NMW also excludes any payment in kind, such as tips, gifts, and bonuses.

Labour and Employment Law Specialists

If you find yourself in a legal dispute, Allardyce & Partners Attorneys is your first choice regarding labour law specialists. If you earn more than R20 000 on monthly salary, we can offer our legal services on a “no win, no fee” principle, contingent to our terms and conditions. With the unpredictable times that we find ourselves in, some employers will push the envelope to get the most out of their employees. If you feel like you are being treated unfairly by your employer, our labour law specialists can clarify your situation and present you with your options regarding legal action. As a result, you will not be shooting in the dark when faced with a legal dispute and will be armed with an expert to guide you through an arbitration or litigation, should the legal dispute develop to such levels.

Allardyce & Partners Attorneys is your answer when it comes to Labour and Employment Law specialists in South Africa. We offer a complete range of legal services for employees and employers. For more info on how we can assist you, please contact us on 011 234 2125, email us at enquiries@www.allardyce.co.za, or browse our website for details.

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