Advance to the Finance Minister - section 11 of Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 (No. 11 of 2000-2001)

Overview

The legislative instrument F2007B00840, dated 30 March 2001, concerns an advance to the Finance Minister under Section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001. This legislative instrument was enacted to address the need for additional appropriations to ensure that the Department of Finance and Administration could meet its operational requirements effectively. Authorised by Phillip Prior, Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit within the Budget Group of the Department of Finance and Administration, this instrument allows for a temporary increase in funding to cover specific administered expenses. The overarching policy objective is to support improved and more efficient government operations, ensuring that the department can function optimally within the fiscal year. This measure is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of government services during the financial year.

Scope and Application

The Legislative Instrument F2007B00840, issued under section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001, pertains specifically to the Department of Finance and Administration within the Commonwealth of Australia. This instrument authorises an increase in the appropriation item for administered expenses by the sum of $11,000,000 for the financial year 2000-2001. This determination is made by Phillip Prior, the Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Budget Group, Department of Finance and Administration, and is applicable to the appropriation item listed for the specified department. This adjustment is made pending the presentation of additional estimates, ensuring that the department can meet its operational needs within the fiscal constraints outlined by the Act. The legislation does not specify any exclusions or exemptions and applies directly to the entities and appropriation items identified in the document.

Key Provisions

Section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 (sections 11) allows the Finance Minister to make an advance to the Department of Finance and Administration to increase the appropriation for administered expenses. Specifically, Phillip Prior, Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Budget Group, Department of Finance and Administration, has determined an increase of $11,000,000 for the Department of Finance and Administration. This increase is part of Outcome 2, which aims to improve and enhance the efficiency of government operations. This adjustment is pending additional estimates, suggesting that it is a temporary measure until further budgetary decisions are made. The obligations imposed by this legislative instrument are primarily administrative. Phillip Prior, as the Branch Manager, is tasked with determining the necessary appropriations for specific purposes within the Department of Finance and Administration. This decision must align with the outcomes outlined in the Act, specifically focusing on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations. The process must be transparent and adhere to the guidelines set out in the Appropriation Act, ensuring that the financial adjustments are justified and properly accounted for within the budgetary framework. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 could result in various consequences. If the increase in appropriation is not justified or if the process is not followed correctly, it may lead to financial mismanagement or misallocation of funds. While the specific Act does not detail criminal or civil penalties, breaches of budgetary procedures can lead to investigations, audits, and potential disciplinary actions against those responsible. The integrity of the budgeting process is paramount, and any deviations could have significant repercussions for both the Department of Finance and Administration and the individuals involved. In terms of enforcement and penalties, the Act itself does not explicitly outline penalties for non-compliance. However, breaches of budgetary laws can lead to severe administrative and legal consequences. These may include financial penalties, reprimands, and, in extreme cases, legal action against the individuals responsible. Additionally, any mismanagement of funds could lead to a loss of public trust and may result in further scrutiny from oversight bodies, impacting the reputation and operations of the Department of Finance and Administration.