The National Minimum Wage for 2026 has been announced by the Department of Employment and Labour. From 1 March 2026, the national minimum wage increases to R28.79 per hour.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM WAGE?
The National Minimum Wage Act sets the minimum amount that employers must pay their workers per hour. No employer is allowed to pay below this amount.
NEW RATES FOR 2026
- General workers: R28.79 per hour
- Domestic workers: R28.79 per hour
- Farm workers: R28.79 per hour
- Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers: R15.16 per hour
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
If you work 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, you should earn at least:
- Daily: R230.32
- Weekly: R1,151.60
- Monthly: R4,997.60
YOUR RIGHTS
If your employer is paying you less than the minimum wage, you have the right to report them to the Department of Employment and Labour. You can call the labour helpline on 0800 20 13 94 (free call).
Remember: your employer cannot fire you for claiming your minimum wage rights.