SA Public Servants Salary Hike – South African public servants can expect a welcome boost in their pay from June 2025, as the government has officially approved a new salary structure. This move follows extensive negotiations between unions and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), aimed at addressing inflation, cost of living increases, and retaining skilled professionals in the public sector. The updated pay scale will apply across various departments, benefiting millions of government employees.
SA Public Servants Salary Hike June 2025
The revised pay scale introduces an average salary increase of 7.5% across all grades. Specific increases will vary depending on job level, years of experience, and departmental budget allocations. The government has also confirmed the inclusion of backdated payments from April 1, 2025, to be settled in the June salary cycle.
Key Highlights of the June 2025 Salary Hike
- Salary increases are effective from June 1, 2025
- Back pay from April 1, 2025, included
- Performance bonuses retained in current format
- New structure affects teachers, police, nurses, administrative staff, and others
- Revised housing and transport allowances
- Additional incentives for rural and high-demand service areas
New Salary Scale Table by Job Level
| Job Level | Old Monthly Salary (ZAR) | New Monthly Salary (ZAR) | Increase % | Annual Salary (New) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | R9,500 | R10,215 | 7.5% | R122,580 |
| Level 5 | R14,200 | R15,265 | 7.5% | R183,180 |
| Level 7 | R22,000 | R23,650 | 7.5% | R283,800 |
| Level 9 | R33,800 | R36,335 | 7.5% | R436,020 |
| Level 10 | R41,000 | R44,075 | 7.5% | R528,900 |
| Level 12 | R58,500 | R62,888 | 7.5% | R754,656 |
| Senior Mgmt | R95,000 | R102,125 | 7.5% | R1,225,500 |
| DG Level | R145,000 | R155,875 | 7.5% | R1,870,500 |
Who Will Benefit From This Pay Increase
All permanent public service employees appointed under the Public Service Act will benefit, including:
- Teachers in public schools
- Nurses and healthcare workers
- Police officers and correctional staff
- Clerical and administrative staff
- Departmental managers and senior executives
Employees working in remote or rural areas will also receive location-based incentives, with bonuses of up to R1,500 per month in high-need zones.
Allowances and Benefits Adjusted
The 2025 package includes not only salary changes but also updates to existing allowances, such as:
| Allowance Type | Old Rate | New Rate | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Allowance | R1,500 | R1,700 | Nationwide flat increase |
| Transport Allowance | R900 | R1,000 | Urban and rural staff included |
| Medical Aid Subsidy | 60% coverage | 70% coverage | Based on lowest income bracket |
| Rural Area Bonus | R1,200 | R1,500 | Only for selected qualifying areas |
| Risk Allowance (Police) | R1,800 | R2,100 | Applies to SAPS field officers |
| Uniform Allowance | R750 | R850 | For health and law enforcement |
| Study Subsidy | R10,000 pa | R12,500 pa | For approved continuing education |
Important Payment Dates to Know
- Salary hike implementation: June 1, 2025
- Backdated amount payout: June 25, 2025
- Updated payslips: Will reflect from June 20, 2025
- Housing and travel allowance adjustment: Included in July 2025 payroll
How to Check Your Updated Salary Slip
Employees can view their revised salary breakdown via the eGovernment portal or their respective departmental HR portals. For personalized assistance, contact your HR officer.
FAQs – SA Public Servants Salary Hike
Q1: Will contract workers receive the salary hike?
A1: No, only permanent staff under the Public Service Act are eligible for this hike.
Q2: How will backdated payments be calculated?
A2: Back pay from April 1 to May 31 will be based on the difference between the old and new salary amounts.
Q3: Will pension contributions increase as well?
A3: Yes, since contributions are percentage-based, employee and employer contributions will rise proportionally.
Q4: Where can I lodge a salary query?
A4: Contact your departmental HR officer or email the DPSA at [email protected]
Departmental Contact Details
For assistance, contact the relevant department below:
| Department | Phone Number | |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Public Service | 012 314 7911 | [email protected] |
| Department of Education | 012 357 3000 | [email protected] |
| Department of Health | 012 395 8000 | [email protected] |
| South African Police Service | 08600 10111 | [email protected] |
| Department of Correctional Sv. | 012 307 2000 | [email protected] |
| Government Employee Pension | 0800 117 669 | [email protected] |
The salary hike effective June 2025 represents a significant step towards better compensation for South Africa’s public servants. While challenges remain in addressing pay equity across departments, the government’s proactive step to uplift earnings amid rising costs of living is welcomed by many. Employees are advised to check their salary slips carefully and reach out to HR if discrepancies appear.