With the new salary agreement for two years, public sector employees will have their salaries increased by 4.7 percent with effect from 1 October 2025. This is subsequent to the previous increase of 7.5 percent that was merchandized in November 2024. The PCSBC Resolution 1 of 2025 pay increases are an attempt by the government and trade unions to enable public workers to meet ever-rising living costs.
Who Gets the Increase- And Who Does Not
The increase is for publicity workers from Levels 1 to 12, plus those with special job arrangements. It did not, however, increase earnings for some categories of senior managers and professionals, such as certain teachers and police officers. The public service department has issued full details on implementation, including the categories of employees who will be covered and those who are excluded, in Circular No. 7 of 2025.
Paying for the New Salaries
The government is allocating R754.2 billion for public sector salaries in 2025-26, an increase of R33.1 billion from the previous year, in support of the wage increase. The salary budget, which is expected to shoot further up to R822.5 billion in 2026, clearly reflects the determination of the government to hold the pay for public workers in line with inflation. The increase in funding is aimed at preserving the well-being and standard of living of civil servants from economic pressures.
Union Reaction: More Still Needed
Despite the agreed increase, many trade unions feel 4.7 percent is too low in view of inflation and the escalating cost of living. Representing over 300,000 employees, unions continue to put pressure on government for higher adjustments while saying negotiations should continue to bring about a fair result. This may affect whether future supplements are put in place or whether the wage agreement gets reviewed.
A Pay Slip Is Expected to Have…
For public sector employees (levels 1–12, exclude those in excluded categories for the scope of the pay raise), salary for October 2025 should be paid with this raised computation. Check to see whether your Department acknowledges Circular 7 of 2025 for your position. If you are in an excluded category (senior management or some teachers or police posts), check with HR on whether you will be awarded differently under some other clause or schedule.
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