Dismissal reform on the horizon
The new Draft Code of Good Practice on Dismissal promises a simpler, fairer approach to workplace discipline. With clearer probation rules and greater flexibility for small employers, the reforms shift focus from legal formality to practical fairness. This article explores what the changes mean and how employers can prepare for implementation.
How SMEs can remain resilient under pressure
South Africa’s SMEs face tightening margins, rising input costs, and stricter compliance demands. The most resilient employers plan early, keep accurate data, build financial buffers, and communicate transparently. This article highlights practical strategies — from efficiency gains to compliance readiness — to help small and medium businesses strengthen resilience in a high-pressure economy.
Case law: the cost of blind obedience
The Mbuyane v Dekker case shows how following instructions becomes misconduct when ethical judgment is ignored. The Labour Court ruled that employees must question irregular orders and uphold integrity. The decision highlights accountability, clarity in policy, and the importance of training to prevent blind obedience from undermining workplace trust.
Equity gets real
The High Court has confirmed that sectoral Employment Equity targets are lawful and enforceable, ending uncertainty for employers and ushering in a stricter era of measurable compliance. Companies with 50+ employees must now align EE plans with gazetted targets, demonstrate progress, justify gaps, and prepare for intensified verification audits.
The 3-for-3 proposal: shortcut or setback for transformation?
The proposed 3-for-3 BBBEE model aims to simplify empowerment scoring, but risks narrowing transformation by removing procurement and enterprise-development pillars. While simplification may ease compliance, it could undermine inclusivity, distort incentives, and limit SME participation. Employers must stay informed, assess exposure, and prioritise meaningful, sustainable transformation practices.
A Word from our General Secretary
South Africa’s labour landscape is shifting as employers face new EE targets, the proposed 3-for-3 BBBEE model, tighter exemptions, and an upcoming Code of Good Practice on Dismissal. This message highlights the importance of clarity, reflection, and readiness as labour reform accelerates and employers prepare for meaningful, sustainable compliance.
LLLRA: Building Tomorrow’s LRPs.
The world of work is shifting. So is the role of labour relations practitioners. See how LLLRA, with founding support from (SA)UEO, is setting new standards to protect businesses and uplift the profession.
Case Law: Ignorance Isn’t Innocence.
Two sick note cases. Two outcomes. One critical lesson. Learn how to draft and enforce workplace policies that will stand up under legal scrutiny.
Inside the DEL Enforcement Landscape.
Department of Employment & Labour: The Future of Compliance and Enforcement Takeaways from the DEL Sessions Attended by GS Elise Coetser and Asst. GS André Fourie (SA)UEO’s leadership attended critical sessions hosted by the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) in early May, which shed light on the state’s evolving approach to compliance, employment equity, […]
CIPC Beneficial Ownership Compliance.
A new requirement has quietly come into effect—and many businesses don’t even realise they’re non-compliant. This isn’t admin. It’s a regulatory risk. Here’s what the CIPC now expects of you.
