Questions answered clearly

FEDUSA is the Federation of Unions of South Africa, a politically independent and non-racial trade union federation established in 1997. It coordinates and represents affiliated unions in national policy, collective bargaining, skills development, social dialogue and international labour structures.

FEDUSA is a federation of trade unions rather than an individual-membership union. Workers ordinarily join one of FEDUSA's 18 affiliated unions that represents their occupation or sector.

A registered trade union can complete the online affiliation application. FEDUSA will assess it according to the federation’s constitution and governance processes.

Union membership can provide collective representation, assistance with employment disputes, bargaining over wages and conditions, worker education and a stronger collective voice.

Membership fees are set by each affiliated union and may differ by sector, salary or membership category. Contact the relevant union for current rates and requirements.

The Basic Conditions of Employment Act generally provides at least 21 consecutive days of paid annual leave per annual leave cycle. Some exclusions and sector rules may apply.

During each 36-month sick-leave cycle, an employee is generally entitled to paid sick leave equal to the number of days normally worked in six weeks. Medical-certificate rules can apply.

From 1 March 2026, the general national minimum wage is R30.23 for each ordinary hour worked. Different rates apply to certain programmes and learnership allowances.

Report the hazard promptly to your supervisor, health and safety representative, safety committee or union representative and keep a written record. Serious non-compliance can be reported to the Department of Employment and Labour.

An unfair dismissal dispute should generally be referred within 30 days. Unfair labour practice disputes generally have a 90-day limit. Late referrals usually require condonation.

Conciliation is a confidential process in which an independent commissioner helps the employee and employer explore a voluntary settlement.

Yes. A member of a registered trade union may approach the union for assistance with a dispute referral.

Keep your employment contract, payslips, policies, correspondence, warnings, meeting notes, medical certificates, performance records and a dated timeline of events.

For most covered workers, the employee contributes 1% of remuneration and the employer contributes a further 1%, subject to the statutory earnings ceiling.

Eligible workers can apply using the Department’s online UIF service or obtain assistance through a labour centre.

Workers who meet the UIF requirements may claim maternity benefits while on maternity leave.

Obtain medical attention and report the accident to the employer as soon as possible. Keep copies of the accident report, medical reports, claim number and related correspondence.

The Compensation Fund provides benefits for eligible disability, illness or death resulting from occupational injuries and diseases.

Collective bargaining is the process through which a union and an employer or employer organisation negotiate wages, benefits and working conditions on behalf of workers.