The Department of Employment and Labour has formally repealed the Employment Equity Regulations of 2014, replacing them with the newly issued Employment Equity Regulations, 2025. Effective from 15 April 2025, these updated regulations bring important changes that all designated employers must comply with under the Employment Equity Act, 1998.
The new framework clarifies critical definitions (such as designated employer, reasonable accommodation, numerical targets, and people with disabilities), distinguishes between company-set goals and ministerial/sectoral targets, and strengthens requirements for Employment Equity Plans. Employers are now required to align plans with sectoral targets, set annual numerical goals, and implement clear affirmative action measures with ongoing monitoring. Plans remain valid for up to five years.
These changes mark a significant shift in compliance expectations, underscoring the importance of proactive planning and alignment with national transformation objectives.