New Employment Equity Regulations Officially Introduced
On 15 April 2025, the Minister of Employment and Labour officially revoked the 2014 Employment Equity Regulations and, in line with Section 55(1) of the Employment Equity Act, 1998, promulgated the new Employment Equity Regulations, 2025.
Under Sections 15A (1) and (2) of the Act, the Minister issued a notice defining national economic sectors and setting corresponding sector-specific numerical targets, which came into effect immediately upon publication (referred to as the “2025 Regulations”).
Requirements for Compiling an EE Plan
These changes have a substantial impact on how designated employers must approach the planning, implementation, and reporting of employment equity. When compiling an Employment Equity (EE) Plan in accordance with Section 20 of the Act, designated employers are required to consult the relevant Codes of Good Practice issued under Section 54. The EE Plan must, at a minimum, address all aspects outlined in the EEA13 template as set out in the 2025 Regulations.
In line with Section 20(2) of the Act, Employers must take the following into consideration when developing EE Plans aimed at achieving Sectoral Targets.
- The composition of their current workforce,
- Establishing yearly numerical targets in line with the relevant sectoral target, and
- The relevant Economically Active Population (EAP) data.
Stricter Compliance and Planning Requirements
The 2025 Regulations bring about more stringent compliance requirements and tighter enforcement provisions, with a particular emphasis on the introduction of five-year sectoral numerical targets primarily focusing on the Top 4 Occupational levels.
Obligations for New and Existing Designated Employers
- Employers who attain designated status after 1 April 2025 must draft an EE Plan covering the remainder of this five-year term.
- All designated employers are now obligated to create and implement an EE Plan spanning from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2030.
Final Thoughts
The new Employment Equity Regulations aren’t just about ticking boxes — they’re about driving real, measurable transformation in South African workplaces.
If your organisation needs assistance in understanding or aligning with the new requirements, our team at SEESA is ready to help.
Contact us today for a compliance health check or to book a strategic consultation.