DPSA Circular 40 (2026) – Government Vacancies in South Africa

If you’re looking for a stable job in the public sector, the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has released its latest vacancy circular – a chance you shouldn’t miss. Learn more about opportunities through the Thapelo Madiba Bursary website.

What the opportunity is

The DPSA has published Public Service Vacancy Circular 40 of 2026. It went live on 6 November 2026. The circular lists jobs in national and provincial government departments across South Africa. Closing dates differ for each position.

The circular includes vacancies from 17 national departments and institutions and six provincial administrations (Gauteng, KwaZulu‑Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Western Cape). You can download each department’s PDF to see the specific jobs.

National departments

  1. Department of Defence
  2. Department of Electricity and Energy
  3. Department of Employment and Labour
  4. Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
  5. Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
  6. Department of Higher Education and Training
  7. Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services
  8. Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
  9. Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources
  10. Department of Small Business Development
  11. South African Police Service (SAPS)
  12. Department of Tourism
  13. Department of Transport
  14. National Treasury
  15. Department of Water and Sanitation
  16. Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
  17. The Presidency

Provincial administrations

  1. Gauteng Government Vacancies
  2. KwaZulu‑Natal Government Vacancies
  3. Limpopo Government Vacancies
  4. Mpumalanga Government Vacancies
  5. North West Government Vacancies
  6. Western Cape Government Vacancies

Note: The Eastern Cape, Free State and Northern Cape do not appear in this circular.

Who can apply

Each vacancy sets its own minimum qualification and experience. Common education levels include:

  • Grade 10 or 11
  • Grade 12 / Matric
  • National Certificate (N4‑N6)
  • National Diploma
  • Bachelor’s, Honours or Master’s degree
  • Professional or technical qualifications

Read the individual PDF to confirm the exact requirements. Some posts also need work experience, a driver’s licence or a professional registration.

What you gain

Government jobs offer stable salaries, pension benefits and clear career paths. You will develop skills in areas such as administration, finance, IT, engineering, law, environmental management, and more. Experience in the public sector is valued across the country.

How to apply – step by step

  1. Download the full circular here: DPSA Circular 40 of 2026.
  2. Open the PDF for the national department or province you are interested in.
  3. Find a job that matches your qualifications.
  4. Read the duties, salary, reference number and closing date carefully.
  5. Gather the required documents – usually the Z83 form, a current CV, and copies of qualifications.
  6. Complete the Z83 form exactly as instructed (include the correct job title and reference).
  7. Attach all required files and follow the department’s preferred submission method (email, post, hand‑delivery, e‑Recruitment portal, or department‑specific online system).
  8. Send your application before the listed closing date.

Tips to improve your chances

  • Check that you meet every minimum qualification before applying.
  • Tailor your CV to the specific job description.
  • Proofread the Z83 form – missing information leads to rejection.
  • Use the exact reference number in the subject line or email body.
  • Submit each application separately if you are applying for more than one vacancy.
  • Keep copies of all emails and receipts for your records.
  • Beware of scams – the government never asks for payment to process an application.

Next steps

Take the first step now. Download the PDFs, match your skills to a vacancy, and send a complete application before the deadline. The public sector can offer you a rewarding career, but the process requires attention to detail and punctuality.

Author: Donald Williams
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Donald is the founder and editor of Thapelo Madibeng Bursary, South Africa's trusted resource for bursaries, learnerships, internships, and funding opportunities. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment and educational access, Donald curates timely, verified updates to help students and unemployed youth unlock career pathways in various sectors.

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