Broadcasting and Television Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

Statutory Rules 1968 No. 112, made under the Broadcasting and Television Act 1942-1967, were enacted to amend the Broadcasting and Television Regulations, specifically the fees for hirer’s licences. The problem this legislation addresses is the need to adjust the fees associated with broadcasting and television hirer’s licences to reflect changes in economic conditions and operational costs since the last amendment. The regulations were enacted by the Governor-General in and over the Commonwealth of Australia, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council. The amendments are intended to ensure that the fees for broadcasting and television licences are updated to provide for the current financial requirements of the broadcasting industry while maintaining regulatory oversight. The changes took effect for licences granted or renewed on or after the first day of October, 1968.

Scope and Application

The Broadcasting and Television Regulations 1968, made under the Broadcasting and Television Act 1942-1967, adjust the fees for hirer's licences, specifically increasing the charges for different categories of licences. These amendments apply to licences granted for periods commencing on or after the first day of October, 1968, as well as to the renewal of such licences if they expire or have expired on or after that date. The legislation primarily impacts entities and individuals who require hirer's licences for broadcasting activities within the Commonwealth of Australia. The amendments are designed to ensure that the regulatory framework remains current and reflective of the economic conditions of the time. While the regulations primarily focus on the financial aspects of licensing, they underscore the Commonwealth's jurisdiction over broadcasting activities within Australia, thereby reinforcing the federal government's oversight over the broadcasting industry.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Broadcasting and Television Regulations 1968 involve amendments to the fees for hirer’s licences under Regulation 12 (subsections 2(a), 2(b), and 3). These amendments adjust the costs for hiring broadcast equipment and services, updating the previous rates. Specifically, Regulation 12(2)(a) changes the fee from Five dollars and fifty cents to Six dollars fifty cents, Regulation 12(2)(b) alters the fee from Two dollars and eighty cents to Three dollars thirty cents, and Regulation 12(3) modifies the fee from Twelve dollars to Fourteen dollars. The Act imposes clear obligations and requirements on the parties involved, particularly those who hold or wish to renew their hirer’s licences. The amendments apply to any licence granted for a period commencing on or after the first day of October 1968, as well as to the renewal of a licence where the licence or the last preceding renewal expires on or after that date. This ensures that the new fee structure is implemented uniformly and prospectively, affecting only those who begin or continue their licence periods post the effective date. There are no specific offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences outlined in the provided text for breach of these regulations. However, it is implied that failure to adhere to the amended fee structure could result in non-compliance with the Act. While the text does not specify penalties, breaches of similar legislative provisions typically incur fines or other administrative sanctions under the overarching Broadcasting and Television Act 1942-1967.