South Africans\u2014from students and job seekers to parents and public servants, have been asking the same question: are TV licences finally ending? With the SABC\u2019s finances under pressure and Parliament still wrangling over the SABC Bill, it\u2019s easy to feel confused. This guide cuts through the noise. You\u2019ll learn what has changed, what hasn\u2019t, what might replace TV licences, and what you should do right now to stay on the right side of the law and avoid penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Until Parliament replaces the system, TV licences remain a legal requirement<\/a><\/strong> under section 27 of the Broadcasting Act. If you own or use a TV set, you must hold a valid licence, and non-payment can carry penalties in law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Communications Minister Solly Malatsi says his department has received three bids<\/strong> in response to a July 2025 tender to design a new SABC funding model<\/a>. The SABC and National Treasury will sit on the bid evaluation committee<\/strong>, with a decision expected this week; the chosen provider would then have about three months<\/strong> to finalise the model.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s changing: Government is designing a new funding model<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Is the SABC Bill alive\u2014or withdrawn? A quick timeline<\/h3>\n\n\n\n