What Is Sectoral Determination 10
Although South Africa’s Film Industry Is Unregulated…
There is one exception that protects our most vulnerable performers: children.
Sectoral Determination 10 was created to regulate the employment of children in the performance of artistic, advertising, and cultural work — like acting in film and TV.
- Legal work permits are issued
- Safe and healthy working conditions
- Limited working hours (based on age)
- Education isn’t compromised
- Parental supervision is in place
In an otherwise unregulated space, Sectoral 10 is the only formal labour protection in the film industry — and must be taken seriously by productions, parents, and agents.
Let’s protect our child performers — know the law, demand compliance, and report violations.
If an employer wants to hire a child under 15 for advertising, artistic, or cultural work, they must apply for a work permit from the Department of Labour.
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Compliance: Once a permit is granted, producers must follow the rules in Sectoral Determination 10. List Item
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Working Hours and Conditions:There are strict limits on how long children can work, when they must take breaks, and the types of work they can do.
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Safety and Welfare: Productions must make sure the child’s health and safety are protected at all times.
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Parental Consent: Parents must give permission, and a parent or legal guardian must supervise the child on set.
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Education and Development: Children must still attend school, and film work must not harm their learning or future.
Sectoral Determination 10 was created to protect children in an otherwise unregulated industry. It ensures their safety and prevents exploitation while allowing them to take part in creative work under the law.
Parents’ Responsibilities
Parents play a vital role in protecting their child’s rights and safety on set. Even though the industry is largely unregulated, Sectoral Determination 10 offers legal protection for children – but it must be followed.
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Know the law: Learn about Sectoral Determination 10 and how it protects child performers.
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Check for permits: Make sure the production has the correct work permit before your child goes on set.
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Choose the right agent: Use agents who understand and follow child labor laws.
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Work with good productions: Do research to ensure the production company is reputable and professional.
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Always be present: A parent or legal guardian must supervise the child at all times on set.
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Insist on a child minder: Productions must have a qualified child minder to help enforce the rules.
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Watch working conditions: Ensure your child is in a safe and healthy environment.
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Set clear limits: Be aware of how long your child can work and what kind of roles they take.
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Keep school first: Make sure filming doesn’t interfere with your child’s education.
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Reach out for help: Contact SABAG if you have concerns or need guidance.
Parents are key to making sure the law is followed and their children are treated fairly and safely.
What to Do If Parents Are Told They Can’t Be on Set
If a production tells you that you’re not allowed on set with your child, here’s what you should do:
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Know your rights: Sectoral Determination 10 requires that a parent or legal guardian supervise a child under 15 on set.
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Ask questions: Politely ask the production to explain why they are not allowing parents on set.
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Request it in writing: Ask for written clarification of their policy and which laws or guidelines they are following.
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Get support: Contact FOSAC CASTINGS for advice and to understand your options.
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Report violations: If the production is breaking the law, report it to SABAG.
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Protect your child: If you feel the environment is unsafe, consider removing your child from the production.
Important:
Parental presence is a legal requirement. If you are being denied access, the production may be violating child labor laws. Always put your child’s safety first.
Regulations and Consequences: Child Labour in South Africa’s Film Industry
In South Africa, children under 15 may not work in film, TV, or advertising without a legal work permit.
If a child works without a permit, the consequences include:
- Legal action against the production, agent, or parent
- Risk to the child’s health and safety
- Increased chance of exploitation or abuse
The Basic Conditions of Employment Act and Sectoral Determination 10 exist to protect children in the industry. These laws ensure that children’s safety, education, and rights are not compromised.
