Media Statement: Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development Calls for Public Input on General (Family) Laws Amendment Bill

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Parliament, Thursday, 9 October 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development has invited interested parties and stakeholders to make written submissions on the General (Family) Laws Amendment Bill, currently under consideration by the committee.

Committee Chairperson, Mr Xola Nqola, emphasised that public participation is a fundamental part of the legislative process and encouraged all stakeholders and members of the public to share their views. “This Bill deals with important aspects of family law that directly affect the lives of many South Africans. We therefore urge citizens and organisations to use this opportunity to contribute to shaping a fair, modern and inclusive legal framework,” said Mr Nqola.

The Bill seeks to amend several key pieces of legislation, namely:

  • The Divorce Act, 1979, to provide for consequential amendments of certain sections arising from changes to the Mediation in Certain Divorce Matters Act, 1987, and to allow for the transfer of assets by a court granting a decree of divorce in respect of a marriage out of community of property, regardless of when it was entered into.
  • The Matrimonial Property Act, 1984, to provide for the distribution of matrimonial property of a marriage out of community of property upon dissolution of the marriage by death; and
  • The Mediation in Certain Divorce Matters Act, 1987, to clarify and strengthen the functions of the Office of the Family Advocate, and to amend its short and long titles accordingly.


Mr Nqola said that the committee will also hold public hearings to ensure that all voices are heard in shaping this important legislation.

The full advert can be viewed on Parliament’s website on https://tinyurl.com/5n7c9dpa
Written submissions must be received by no later than 10 November 2025. Enquiries and submissions should be directed to Mr V. Ramaano via email at Generallaws@Parliament.gov.za

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MR XOLA NQOLA.

For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:

Name: Rajaa Azzakani (Ms)
Cell: 081 703 9542
E-mail: razzakani@parliament.gov.za