Awaiting the Updated Minimum Wage Rate for the Cleaning Industry
We are all eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the updated minimum wage rate for the cleaning industry, expected to come into effect on 1 March 2025.
Feedback to Date:
National Minimum Wage (NMW) Adjustment Recommendation:
On 18 December 2024, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission published its annual review report in the Government Gazette. This report recommends a CPI + 1.5% adjustment to the national minimum wage for 2025.
Key Points to Note:
Consumer Price Index (CPI):
The CPI measures changes in consumer prices for goods and services.
As of November 2024, South Africa’s CPI was 2.9%, showing a slight increase from 2.8% in October.
The inflation rate that determines the minimum wage adjustment will be based on the December CPI, which will be published on Wednesday, 22 January 2025.
Legal Implications:
Employers must adhere to the new minimum wage, as it is illegal to pay employees below this threshold for ordinary hours worked.
Upcoming Announcement:
The Minister of Employment and Labour is expected to announce the final adjusted rate in February 2025.
The new minimum wage is a significant benchmark for ensuring fair remuneration and compliance within the cleaning industry.