For years, South African actors have been operating in a challenging and often unfair environment. Classified as independent contractors, we have been denied the basic worker rights that many take for granted, including the right to form a union and to engage in collective bargaining. This has left us vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
But today, we celebrate a watershed moment. The South African Guild of Actors (SAGA), in partnership with the Personal Managers Association (PMA), has successfully petitioned the Competition Commission for a conditional exemption from certain restrictive aspects of the Competition Act. This victory, published in the Government Gazette on January 31, 2025, marks the beginning of a new era for actors in South Africa.
The Long Road to Reform and Regulation
For 15 years, SAGA has been fighting for legislative reform. We’ve seen firsthand how the current system allows powerful industry players to dictate terms, leaving actors with little recourse. We’ve seen the impact of unfair contracts and unacceptable working conditions.
Our efforts to provide guidance on fair compensation through a recommended minimum rate card were challenged by the Competition Commission, highlighting the need for a legal framework that recognises the unique challenges faced by actors.
A Victory for Fairness – and Global Solidarity
The granting of this exemption is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of SAGA and the PMA. It allows us to engage in meaningful dialogue with industry stakeholders, addressing critical issues like fair compensation, working conditions, and professional standards
This victory was also made possible by the invaluable support of our international allies. The International Federation of Actors (FIA), a global trade union federation representing performers worldwide has consistently stood by SAGA since we were admitted to membership in 2012. We have no doubt that FIA’s comprehensive and meticulously argued submission to the Competition Commission was instrumental in securing this exemption.
FIA’s submission highlighted the importance of collective bargaining in thriving entertainment industries globally, citing examples from the US, UK, Canada, the EU, and New Zealand. They emphasised how collective agreements create stability, predictability, and fair working conditions, ultimately benefiting the entire industry. Their support underscored the global recognition of the challenges faced by freelance performers and the necessity of addressing the power imbalance in the entertainment sector.
Appeal Filed
However, we must also acknowledge that at the eleventh hour, the Commercial Producers Association of South Africa and the Association for Communication and Advertising have jointly filed an appeal against the Competition Commission’s decision. Kropman Attorneys have secured the services of a highly regarded Senior Counsel specialising in competition law to represent SAGA at the Competition Tribunal. Our commitment to securing fair rates and contracts for performers remains unwavering.
Join the Conversation
We invite you to join the conversation. Share your thoughts and experiences on the various social media platforms over the coming weeks and months. Let’s work together to build a thriving and equitable entertainment industry in South Africa.
#JoinSAGANow #SAGuildOfActors #SAGA #ThePMA #pressrelease
Featured image adapted from photo by Greg Bulla on Unsplash