Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Amendment Act 1984

Overview

The Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Amendment Act 1984 was enacted to modify the eligibility period for the bounty under the Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Act 1977. This Act was introduced to address the need to extend the period during which businesses could claim the bounty for purchasing automatic data processing equipment, ensuring that more entities could benefit from the financial incentives aimed at encouraging the adoption of modern technology within Australian businesses. Enacted by the Australian Parliament, the policy objective of the Act was to support technological advancement and economic growth by easing financial constraints for businesses investing in automated data processing systems. The Act amends the Principal Act by adjusting the cessation date for bounty eligibility, thereby extending the period during which businesses could apply for the bounty. By replacing the previously fixed date of 28 March 1984 with a new date of 6 May 1984, or a later date set by the Minister through a Gazette notice, the Act ensures that businesses have a longer timeframe to capitalise on the financial incentives provided. This legislative change reflects an effort to support the broader economic goal of enhancing technological capabilities within the Australian business sector.

Scope and Application

The Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Amendment Act 1984 amends the Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Act 1977, extending the period during which a bounty can be paid for the use of automatic data processing equipment in Australia. This Act applies to individuals and entities involved in transactions that qualify for the bounty under the Principal Act, which provides financial incentives for the adoption and use of automatic data processing equipment. The scope of the Act is limited to the Commonwealth of Australia and pertains to the bounty scheme outlined in the Principal Act, which is designed to encourage investment in and the utilisation of advanced data processing technologies. The Act does not specify any exclusions or exemptions and operates within the confines of the Principal Act, with its provisions potentially being further refined through subordinate instruments issued by the Minister under the authority of the Act. The Act came into effect on 28 March 1984, with the amendment to the bounty payment period taking effect on 6 May 1984, or any later date determined by the Minister and published in the Gazette.

Key Provisions

The Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Amendment Act 1984 (hereafter referred to as the "Act") amends the Automatic Data Processing Equipment Bounty Act 1977, particularly focusing on section 4 of the Principal Act. The main operative sections of this amendment pertain to the period during which a bounty is payable under the Act. Specifically, section 3 of the Act modifies the date after which the bounty ceases to be payable. The amendment removes the previous date, 28 March 1984, and substitutes it with a new date, 6 May 1984, or a later date determined by the Minister, provided that the Minister issues a notice in the Gazette before 6 May 1984. This change effectively extends the bounty period by a few weeks, ensuring that eligible parties have more time to benefit from the bounty provisions. The Act imposes specific obligations and requirements on the parties it governs. Firstly, businesses and entities that qualify for the bounty under the Principal Act must ensure that they meet the criteria and conditions set out in the legislation. They must also be aware of the amended date for the cessation of bounty eligibility. Additionally, the Minister’s role is to publish a notice in the Gazette specifying the new date after which the bounty will not be payable, thereby ensuring transparency and compliance with the updated provisions. In terms of consequences for breach, the Act does not explicitly outline offences, penalties, or consequences for non-compliance with its provisions. However, failure to adhere to the stipulated dates and conditions could result in losing eligibility for the bounty. The Act does not detail specific civil or criminal penalties for such breaches; instead, it implicitly relies on the loss of financial benefits as the primary consequence for non-compliance. It is important for entities to stay informed about the legislative changes and ensure timely compliance to avoid missing out on the bounty.