Commonwealth Public Service Regulations 1913 (Amendment)

Overview

The Commonwealth Public Service Regulations (Ninth Amendment) 1918 was introduced to amend existing regulations under the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902-1917, specifically addressing the allowances for officers travelling on official business. Enacted by the Governor-General in Council, the regulation was intended to update the provisions concerning travel allowances, reflecting changes in the costs associated with travel, particularly where the fare includes subsistence. The policy objective underpinning this amendment is to ensure that officers are adequately compensated for their expenses while performing official duties, thereby maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the public service. This legislative instrument was issued to correct and modernise the Commonwealth Public Service Regulations, ensuring that allowances for travel reflect contemporary economic conditions and accurately compensate officers for their out-of-pocket expenses. The amendment underscores the commitment to providing fair and reasonable remuneration to public servants, thereby supporting the effective functioning of the government.

Scope and Application

The 1918 Regulations under the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902-1917, specifically the Ninth Amendment, pertain to the adjustments in the allowances for Commonwealth public service officers when they undertake travel by steamer, other vessels, or railway, where the fare includes subsistence. These regulations are applicable to Commonwealth public service officers and are set within the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia. The amendment made by Statutory Rules 1913/341 replaces the previous allowance structure, stipulating that officers are to receive one quarter of the ordinary rates to which they would otherwise be entitled, thereby modifying the financial compensation provided to these officers during their official travel. The scope of these regulations is limited to the specified travel conditions and does not extend to other forms of travel or allowances not covered by the fare which includes subsistence.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these Regulations (Statutory Rules 1918, No. 177) pertain to the amendment of the Commonwealth Public Service Regulations, specifically Regulation 150. Regulation 150, as amended, now specifies that when public service officers travel by steamer, vessel, or railway and the fare includes subsistence, they are to be allowed one quarter of the ordinary rates to which they would otherwise be entitled (Reg. 150(1)). This amendment adjusts the allowance given to officers under such travel circumstances, ensuring that they receive a proportionate reduction in their subsistence rates if their travel fare already includes this element. The Regulations impose obligations on Commonwealth public service officers who travel under the specified conditions. These officers must ensure that if their travel fare includes subsistence, they accept the adjusted allowance of one quarter of their ordinary rates. This requirement ensures that the travel expenses are appropriately accounted for and that officers do not receive a double benefit by claiming full subsistence rates alongside a fare that already includes such costs. Failure to comply with the provisions of these Regulations could potentially lead to administrative penalties or disciplinary action against the officers involved. Although the Regulations themselves do not explicitly state the penalties for non-compliance, breaches of public service regulations can typically lead to actions such as reprimands, fines, or other disciplinary measures as outlined in the broader Public Service Act 1902-1917 and any relevant administrative guidelines. The precise consequences would depend on the nature and severity of the breach, as well as the specific policies and procedures in place at the time.