Complete LRA 7.11 and file your CCMA case — free, no lawyer needed. Step-by-step: 30-day deadline, what to write, and what happens at conciliation and arbitration.
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Direct Answer
To refer a dispute to the CCMA, complete form LRA 7.11 within 30 days of the dismissal or dispute. Submit it to the nearest CCMA office, online at ccma.org.za, or by fax. There is no filing fee. You can represent yourself at conciliation and arbitration.
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“An employee may refer a dispute about a dismissal to the Commission if the employee reasonably believes that the reason for dismissal was unfair.”
Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995
Section 135
“The Commission must attempt to resolve a dispute referred to it through conciliation.”
Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995
Section 138
“If a dispute remains unresolved after conciliation, the commissioner must arbitrate the dispute at the request of any party to the dispute.”
What to Do
Step-by-Step Guide
1Check your time limit. For unfair dismissal: 30 days from the date of dismissal. For unfair labour practice: 90 days from the act or omission. For equal pay/discrimination: 6 months.
2Complete form LRA 7.11. Available at any CCMA office, on the CCMA website (ccma.org.za), or by calling the CCMA helpline. Fill in: your details, your employer's details, the nature of the dispute, and what remedy you are seeking.
3Submit the form. You can drop it at the nearest CCMA office, fax it, or submit online. The CCMA will serve a copy on your employer.
4Attend conciliation. A CCMA commissioner will contact both parties to schedule a conciliation meeting. This is an informal process — the commissioner helps parties reach a settlement. No strict rules of evidence apply. You do not need a lawyer.
5If conciliation fails, the commissioner issues a certificate of non-resolution. You then have 90 days to request arbitration. At arbitration, the commissioner hears evidence and makes a binding award.
6If the award is in your favour, the employer must comply. If they do not, the award can be made an order of the Labour Court and enforced like a court judgment.
What to Say
Exact Words to Use
“"I am referring a dispute of unfair dismissal to the CCMA under Section 191 of the Labour Relations Act. I confirm that the referral is within the prescribed time limit of 30 days."”
Tone: Written, on the referral form
Now practise saying it. The Advocate has a scenario that walks you through exactly this situation — phrase by phrase, with audio playback and a practice drill. Free to try.
Not for conciliation. At arbitration, you can bring a legal representative (a lawyer or union representative) — but employers can also bring one. For straightforward unfair dismissal cases, many employees successfully represent themselves at CCMA arbitration with good preparation.
My 30 days have passed — is it too late?
You can apply to the CCMA for condonation — an extension of the time limit. You must show good cause for the late referral. The CCMA considers: the degree of lateness, the reasons for it, the employer's possible prejudice, and the merits of the case. You should make this application as soon as possible after the 30 days have passed.
What is the difference between conciliation and arbitration?
Conciliation is a facilitated negotiation — the commissioner does not decide the case; they help both sides agree. Arbitration is more like a mini-trial — the commissioner hears evidence and submissions from both sides and makes a binding award. Conciliation is always attempted first. Arbitration only happens if conciliation fails.
Get Help Now
Resources & Helplines
CCMA Helpline
0861 16 2616
For referral assistance, office locations, and hearing dates.
CCMA Online Referral
ccma.org.za
Submit your LRA 7.11 referral form online.
Legal Aid SA
0800 110 110
Free legal assistance for qualifying workers at arbitration.
Filing with the CCMA is one thing. Knowing what to say when your employer tells you that you have no rights — and holding your ground — is another. This scenario trains you to respond with the exact law reference, calmly and confidently. Free to try.