He relocated to the East Rand to find work, but was repeatedly victimised, and was compelled to start his own business in order to make a living.

[1] Madeley was soon considered a leading figure in the Labour Party because of his exceptional ability.

In November 1925, Madeley joined the cabinet as minister of post and telegraph services and public works.

Hertzog was forced to resign, and Smuts became prime minister for the duration of the war.

Labour entered the wartime coalition government and Madeley served as Minister of Labour until the party left the coalition at the end of the war in 1945, he also served as minister of social affairs from 1939 to 1943.