The Effect of Changing Public Policy on the Automatic Termination of Fixed - Term Employment Contracts in South Africa

Authors

  • Judith Geldenhuys UNISA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2017/v20i0a1704

Keywords:

automatic termination, contractual waiver or rights, public policy, public interest, temporary employment services, contracting out of statutory protection

Abstract

Automatic termination is an accepted means of terminating fixed-term employment relationships. The use of "automatic termination" clauses in employment contracts has become commonplace. Awareness of the potential for abuse of these contractual mechanisms is increasing. Recent case law on the issue indicates that the public policy, which serves as test for validity and/or enforceability of "automatic termination" clauses has changed. The impetus for the protection of "non-standard" or atypical employees is underscored by policy considerations that have been incorporated by the recent legislative amendments. These developments may very well place a heavier burden than before on employers who opt to rely on "automatic termination" clauses to sustain an argument in favour or their validity and/ or enforcement.

 

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Author Biography

Judith Geldenhuys, UNISA

LLB, LLM (UP), LLD (UNISA). Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mercantile Law, UNISA, South Africa.

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Published

29-06-2017

How to Cite

Geldenhuys, J. (2017). The Effect of Changing Public Policy on the Automatic Termination of Fixed - Term Employment Contracts in South Africa. Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal, 20, 1–56. https://doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2017/v20i0a1704

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Section

Articles