Conversations about Labor Dispute with The Bush Radio Advice Office

Facing trouble at work? You're not alone. Every year, thousands of South African workers experience unfair dismissals, unpaid wages, and workplace mistreatment. But the sad truth is — many don’t know where to turn or that they have the legal right to stand up for themselves. In the Bush Radio Advice Office segment, we sat down with Masi from ProBono.org and Vusumzi from the CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) to unpack the basics of labour disputes and how workers can get help.

A labour dispute can be any workplace issue involving conflict between an employee and employer. This includes unfair dismissals, non-payment of wages, forced resignations (also known as constructive dismissal), and unfair treatment. If you’re considered an employee under South African law, you’re protected by the Labour Relations Act and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act — whether you work in an office, a home, on a farm, or in a factory.

So what should you do if there’s a problem at work? First, try to resolve the issue internally by talking to your employer. If that doesn’t work, contact a community advice office or ProBono.org, where trained legal professionals can guide you. The next step is to take your case to the CCMA — and the best part? It’s free, and you don’t need a lawyer. The CCMA starts with conciliation (a type of mediation). If that fails, they move to arbitration, which works like a mini court and results in a binding decision.

Many people think domestic workers, farmworkers, or undocumented workers don’t have rights — but that’s not true. These workers are also protected under the law. They are entitled to the national minimum wage, UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) benefits, and access to CCMA services. In fact, the CCMA runs outreach programmes in vulnerable communities to help people understand their labour rights.

Workers who report illegal behaviour at work  such as corruption, theft, or abuse are protected under the Protected Disclosures Act. While the CCMA may not handle all whistleblower cases, the Labour Court does. So if you’ve spoken up and suffered for it, the law still has your back.

Ultimately, both ProBono.org and the CCMA exist to help workers get justice. ProBono.org offers free legal support for those who cannot afford an attorney, and the CCMA ensures that employees have a platform to resolve disputes fairly and efficiently. Together, they’re working to close the gap between South Africa’s strong labour laws and the reality many people face in the workplace.

As Masi reminded us during the interview, many workers stay silent out of fear — but silence can often cause more damage. The law is clear: justice in the workplace is not a privilege, it’s a right. Know it. Use it. And if you don’t know where to start, ProBono.org and the CCMA are ready to help.

Presenter: Jasnine Roberts

Producer: Lydia M