Advance to the Finance Minister – section 11 of Appropriation Act (No. 2) 2000-2001 (No. 15 of 2000-2001)

Overview

The Legislative Instrument F2007B00786, enacted on 2 May 2001, pertains to an adjustment in appropriations under the Appropriation Act (No. 2) 2000-2001. This legislative instrument was introduced to address the need for specific financial allocations within government agencies, ensuring that the Department of Finance and Administration had the necessary funds to carry out its operations effectively. The enacting body responsible for this adjustment is the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Branch Manager Phillip Prior, who acted pursuant to section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 2) 2000-2001. The policy objective of this adjustment was to facilitate improved and more efficient government operations, aligning with the overarching goal of enhancing governmental efficiency and effectiveness.

Scope and Application

The legislative instrument, identified as F2007B00786, pertains to an advance to the Finance Minister as outlined in section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No.2) 2000-2001. This specific legislation empowers Phillip Prior, Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit within the Budget Group of the Department of Finance and Administration, to increase certain appropriation items for listed agencies by specified amounts. This action is aimed at ensuring that financial resources are appropriately allocated to support government operations, specifically under the outcome of improved and more efficient government operations. The instrument operates within the Commonwealth jurisdiction, affecting the allocation of federal funds. It does not explicitly state exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, but the scope is limited to the appropriation items and agencies listed in the document. The application of this legislation may be further defined or extended through subordinate instruments, which could include regulations or administrative guidelines that provide additional details on the implementation and oversight of these appropriations.

Key Provisions

Section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 2) 2000-2001 (hereafter referred to as the Act) allows the Finance Minister to adjust the appropriation of funds for specified agencies and items. In this instance, the Act permits an increase to an appropriation item for the Department of Finance and Administration by $515,444, as determined by Phillip Prior, the Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit within the Budget Group of the Department of Finance and Administration. The increased appropriation is categorised under the item 'Administered Expenses Specific Payments to the States and Territories', which is aligned with Outcome 2 of the government's financial strategy focused on improving and enhancing the efficiency of government operations. The Act imposes specific obligations on the Department of Finance and Administration, requiring it to ensure that the additional funds are allocated and utilised in accordance with the government's financial directives and budgetary constraints. This includes maintaining accurate records of the expenditure, ensuring that the funds are used for the specified purpose, and reporting any changes in the allocation or usage of these funds to the relevant authorities. Additionally, the Act necessitates that the Department adheres to all relevant financial regulations and compliance requirements, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of these appropriations. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Act may result in legal consequences. The Act does not explicitly state penalties or consequences for non-compliance, but breaches could potentially lead to financial audits, investigations, or disciplinary actions against the individuals involved. Given the nature of the legislation, any significant mismanagement or misallocation of funds could also result in broader implications for government operations and financial stability, potentially leading to further scrutiny and corrective measures by the relevant oversight bodies. It is essential for the Department of Finance and Administration to meticulously follow the Act's requirements to avoid any adverse outcomes.