The Department of Employment and Labour has officially announced an increase in South Africa’s National Minimum Wage (NMW), raising the hourly rate from R28.79 to R30.23, effective 1 March 2026. The adjustment was formalised through the National Minimum Wage Amendment 2026, published in Government Gazette No. 54075 on 3 February 2026. The amendment was signed and approved by the Minister of Employment and Labour, Ms Nomakhosazana Meth, in accordance with Section 6(5) of the National Minimum Wage Act No. 9 of 2018.
South Africa’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) Increase March 2026, This annual review reflects government’s continued commitment to improving workers’ livelihoods, strengthening fair labour practices, and supporting sustainable economic growth.
Key Highlights of the Amendment
1) New National Minimum Wage Rates
From 1 March 2026, the following minimum wage rates will apply across South Africa:
- General national minimum wage: R30.23 per ordinary hour worked
- Farm workers: R30.23 per hour
- Domestic workers: R30.23 per hour
- Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers: R16.62 per hour
- Learners in registered learnerships: Allowances as outlined in Schedule 2 of the amendment
These updated rates ensure that vulnerable and historically underpaid worker groups remain protected under the National Minimum Wage framework.
Revised Learnership Allowances
The amendment also introduces revised minimum weekly allowances for learners participating in registered learnership programmes, in line with the Skills Development Act.
Minimum Learnership Allowances Per Week
Allowances are determined by NQF level and the number of credits earned:
| NQF Level | Credits Earned | Minimum Weekly Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1–2 | 0–120 | R455.00 |
| Level 1–2 | 121–240 | R909.94 |
| Level 3 | 0–120 | R455.00 |
| Level 3 | 121–240 | R856.94 |
| Level 3 | 241–360 | R1,402.87 |
| Level 4 | 0–120 | R455.00 |
| Level 4 | 121–240 | R910.04 |
| Level 4 | 241–360 | R1,402.87 |
| Level 4 | 361–480 | R2,047.41 |
| Level 5–8 | 0–120 | R455.00 |
| Level 5–8 | 121–240 | R985.76 |
| Level 5–8 | 241–360 | R1,474.90 |
| Level 5–8 | 361–480 | R2,077.79 |
| Level 5–8 | 481–600 | R2,654.04 |
These revised allowances are aimed at supporting skills development while ensuring that learners are fairly compensated in the workplace.
Sector-Specific Minimum Wage Adjustments
In addition to the general NMW increase, new wage schedules have also been introduced for certain sectors.
Contract Cleaning Sector
New minimum wages for contract cleaning employees have been adjusted based on geographic areas:
- Area A: R33.27 per hour
- Area B (KwaZulu-Natal): Subject to collective agreements of the Bargaining Council for the Contract Cleaning Service Industry (BCCCI)
- Area C: R30.33 per hour
The Department also warned that any service provider that contracts cleaning services at rates too low to meet minimum wage obligations may be held legally liable under Section 200B of the Labour Relations Act.
Wholesale and Retail Sector
Updated minimum wages for employees in the wholesale and retail sector have also been gazetted. These rates vary depending on:
- Job category (cashier, driver, supervisor, manager, etc.)
- Geographic area (Area A or Area B)
- Hours worked
Examples include:
- General Assistants and Security Guards: Minimum of R30.23 per hour
- Cashiers: Between R30.23 and R34.62 per hour, depending on area
- Supervisors: Up to R50.14 per hour
- Managers: Up to R64.66 per hour
These adjustments help ensure that sector wages remain aligned with the revised national minimum wage while promoting fair pay across different occupational categories.
Employer Compliance Reminder
The Department of Employment and Labour has urged all employers to ensure full compliance with the updated wage determinations from 1 March 2026. Failure to implement the amended minimum wage may lead to enforcement action under:
- The National Minimum Wage Act
- The Basic Conditions of Employment Act
Employers, employees, and members of the public are encouraged to review the full amendment via the Government Printing Works website: www.gpwonline.co.za
Minister’s Statement
Minister Nomakhosazana Meth reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting low-income workers, stating:
The increase in the National Minimum Wage is an important intervention to safeguard workers against rising living costs. Government remains committed to ensuring fair pay, decent working conditions, and inclusive economic growth for all South Africans.
Media Enquiries
Department of Employment and Labour
Communications Unit
Website: www.labour.gov.za
