Protecting Creative Work Government Opens Dialogue on Performers Labour Rights

The Department of Employment and Labour has invited public comment on a proposal that could see performers formally classified as employees, a move aimed at extending labour protections to workers in South Africa's creative sector. The call for submissions marks an important step in reviewing how labour laws apply to artists whose work is often project-based and governed by short-term contracts.Government said the proposal seeks to address long-standing concerns around job security, fair pay and access to benefits for performers in fields such as film, television, theatre and live entertainment. By examining employment status, the department aims to ensure that labour protections keep pace with the realities of creative work, while balancing flexibility for producers and employers.Stakeholders, including artists, unions, production companies and the public, have been encouraged to participate in the consultation process. The department said the feedback will help shape a framework that supports both sustainable creative industries and the dignity and rights of performers contributing to South Africa's cultural and economic life.