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What Is the CCMA? South Africa's Labour Dispute Body Explained
3 August 2026
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration — and why it exists for workers.
The short answer
The CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) is an independent body set up by the Labour Relations Act to resolve workplace disputes fairly and quickly — without the cost and delay of going to court.
What it does
If you have a dispute with your employer — for example an unfair dismissal or an unfair labour practice — you can refer the matter to the CCMA. A neutral commissioner (a Commissioner) will help both sides try to settle the matter through conciliation. If that fails, the same (or another) commissioner can hold an arbitration and issue a final, binding decision called an arbitration award.
Why it matters to you
- It is free to refer most disputes.
- It is designed to be accessible — you do not need a lawyer, though you may bring a representative.
- Decisions are binding and enforceable.
The CCMA exists to level the playing field between employer and employee. Knowing how it works is the first step in protecting your rights.