What the CCMA is
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration is a free, independent body that resolves workplace disputes. Domestic workers have full access to it. The most common referral from a household is unfair dismissal, but a worker can also bring claims about unpaid wages, unlawful deductions, or an unfair labour practice. The worker doesn't pay to refer a dispute, which is why getting the employment basics right matters so much.
Conciliation, then arbitration
A dispute is usually referred within 30 days of the dismissal. The CCMA first sets down conciliation — an informal, without-prejudice meeting where a commissioner tries to help both sides settle. Many disputes end here. If conciliation fails, an unfair-dismissal matter typically proceeds to arbitration: a more formal hearing where each side presents evidence and witnesses, and the commissioner issues a binding award. That award can be enforced like a court order.
What you'll need to show
At the CCMA the employer generally must show the dismissal was fair in both reason and process. That's where your paperwork earns its keep: the written contract, payslips proving correct pay and UIF, any warning letters, and a record of the allegation, the worker's chance to respond and your decision. Households that kept no records are the ones that struggle — not because they were necessarily wrong, but because they can't prove fairness.
Possible outcomes and how to avoid the trip
If a dismissal is found unfair, the commissioner can order reinstatement or compensation of up to roughly 12 months' pay. The best defence is upstream: a proper contract, correct pay and leave, a fair warning history, and a fair dismissal process mean most disputes settle early or never arise. Use our fair-dismissal and warning-letter guides to get the process right before it ever reaches the CCMA. Compliance tool, not legal advice.