What CCMA means

The CCMA is the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration. It is a public dispute resolution body that deals with many workplace disputes in South Africa.

In plain English, it is often the first formal place an employee or employer goes when a workplace issue cannot be resolved directly.

When it matters

The CCMA commonly matters when there has been a dismissal, unfair labour practice, workplace dispute, wage issue, or breakdown in the employment relationship.

It also matters because referrals can involve strict time periods. If a referral is late, the person may need to ask for condonation before the matter can continue.

Common situations

What usually happens next

A CCMA matter usually starts with a referral. The matter may then move to conciliation, where the parties try to settle the dispute.

If it does not settle, the matter may move to arbitration or another appropriate process. The right next step depends on the dispute type, deadlines, documents, and evidence.

Related terms