Petition for the Institutionalization of a Pension Fund for Domestic Workers by The Progressive Domestic Workers Union of South Africa (PRODWUSA) 

Domestic workers are the backbone of countless South African households, yet they remain among the most financially vulnerable workers in the country.

Despite years—often decades—of dedicated service, many domestic workers retire into poverty due to the absence of a formal pension fund tailored to their needs. This petition calls on the Department of Labour, alongside the National Treasury, the Department of Social Development, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and other relevant stakeholders, to take urgent steps toward the institutionalization of a national pension fund for domestic workers.

Currently, many retired domestic workers are forced to rely on the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) old-age grant, which is insufficient to cover basic living expenses, medical costs, and dignified retirement. This grant was never designed to be a substitute for a proper pension fund but rather a minimal safety net. It is not enough for workers who have spent their lives caring for others and contributing to society.

For too long, domestic workers have been excluded from structured retirement plans, leaving them without financial security in their later years. A dedicated pension fund would ensure that domestic workers can retire with dignity and stability, just like workers in other sectors.

We are calling on:

1. The Department of Labour to lead efforts to establish a legal framework for a pension fund.
2. 
   National Treasury to allocate resources and funding strategies for sustainable implementation.
3. 
   The Department of Social Development to integrate the pension system with existing social protections.
4. 
   SARS to facilitate tax incentives and employer contributions for domestic workers’ pensions.

By working together, these stakeholders can create a comprehensive and enforceable pension fund that finally acknowledges the value of domestic work and provides a fair retirement system.

Sign this petition today and help us push for justice. Domestic workers have cared for us—now it’s time we care for them.