Commonwealth Public Service Regulations

Commonwealth of Australia.

Department of Home Affairs,

Melbourne, 23rd December, 1902.

HIS Excellency the Governor-General, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902, has been pleased to. make the following Regulations, to take effect on and after the 1st day of January, 1903.

WILLIAM JOHN LYNE,

Minister for Home Affairs.

C.11342.

REGULATIONS MADE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF THE COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE ACT 1902.

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CHAPTER I.

Administration and Discipline.

(Sections 20, 21, 40, 66, 63, 69, 70, 71, 72, 79, and 80.)

Introductory.

Interpretation and application of Regulations.

1. These Regulations shall be construed with reference to the terms and interpretations of the Commonwealth Public. Service Act 1902, which Act is referred to hereunder as "the Act."

Officers to be acquainted with these Regulations.

2. All officers are required to acquaint themselves with the Act and Regulations. Officers at the head of the various branches of each Department should send in requisitions for copies for the use of the officers under their control ; and they are hereby directed to keep a copy of the Act and Regulations in each room to which officers of the Public Service commonly have access.

Communications, how to be made.

3. Except as otherwise provided, all communications intended for the Commissioner relating to the Public Service or the administration thereof, or to any subject or matter referred to in the Act or Regulations, should be addressed to the "Secretary to the Commonwealth Public Service Commissioner." All communications intended for the Inspector should be addressed to the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector.

Part I.—Attendance of Officers.

Hours of Business.

4. The hours of attendance to be observed by officers not subject to special Regulations or departmental arrangements in that behalf, or not specially exempted by the Commissioner or by the Permanent Head, shall be from 9 o'clock a.m. to 4.30 p.m., except on Saturdays, when the hours of attendance shall be from 9 o'clock a m. to noon. Where the nature of the work will not, in the public interest, admit of the general observance of this Regulation, the Permanent Head or Chief Officer shall recommend, and the Commissioner will prescribe the hours of duty.

The hours of attendance of officers in the General Division will be determined by the Commissioner from time to time, but the ordinary hours of duty for mechanics, labourers, and similar classes should be, as far as practicable, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with half an hour off for luncheon, and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

Attendance-books.

5. In every Department attendance-books shall be kept, and every officer supervising a division or branch shall have charge of the attendance-books to be used by himself and the officers under him, and he will be held responsible to the Chief Officer for the proper keeping of the attendance-books and the due observance of the Regulation hours.

Entries in Attendance-books.

6. Every officer not specially exempted by the Commissioner or the Permanent Head shall enter daily in one of these books the times of his arrival and departure.

Attendance-books, when accessible.

7. Attendance-books shall be accessible for record and signature by officers before and up to 9.15 a.m. every day, when they shall be withdrawn, and a line ruled under the last signature therein, by the officer supervising the Division or Branch, and

shall not be produced for recording departures until the proper time for ceasing work. The allowance of fifteen minutes before the withdrawal of the attendance-book must only be considered as a concession to meet emergent cases. Officers not subject to special Regulations in that behalf, or not specially exempted from attendance at that hour, must be in their offices at 9 a.m.

Certain Officers not required to Sign Attendance-books.

8. Officers of the Administrative Division and officers specially exempted by the Commissioner or the Permanent Head shall not be required to enter in the attendance-books the times of their arrival at and departure from their offices ; but this exemption shall not be held to authorize any officer so exempted from absenting himself from duty during office hours.

Irregularity of Attendance.

9. Any officer not subject to special Regulations in that behalf, or not specially exempted, arriving at his office after 9.15 a.m., shall report himself to the officer in charge or sub-charge, who shall record the time of his arrival in the attendance-book, and, if a satisfactory explanation be not made, his conduct shall be brought under the notice of the Chief Officer as a breach of the Regulations.

Officers not to leave their Offices.

10. No officer shall be allowed to leave his office during office hours, except on official business or by express permission of the Chief Officer or head of the branch.

Absence during Office Hours.

11. If any officer is found to be habitually irregular in the time of his arrival or departure, or to absent himself without leave during office hours, his conduct shall be reported to the Chief Officer.

Time Allowed for Luncheon.

12. To officers who are required to attend on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., three-quarters of an hour will be allowed daily for luncheon, viz., from 1 o'clock p m. to 1.45 p.m., or at such time as the officer in charge or sub-charge may arrange, so as to prevent any interference with the transaction of public business.

Absence from Duty.

13. No officer shall be absent from duty, or shall leave his district without authorized leave, unless reasonable cause be shown. If an officer be prevented by illness or other emergency from attending to duty, he shall immediately report the fact through the head of the branch to the Chief Officer, and it shall be incumbent upon the officer to furnish such evidence of the illness or emergency as the Chief Officer may consider necessary. The duties of any absent officer shall be performed, if practicable, by his fellow officers, without additional salary or remuneration, in such manner as the superior officer of the branch or sub-department may authorize or direct ; but, if not practicable, then in such manner as the Chief Officer may direct.

Officers Absent Without Leave.

14. In cases where an officer's absence is not sanctioned, there shall be deducted from his salary his pay for each day of such absence.

Part II —Duties of Officers.

Responsibility of Permanent Heads.

15. The Permanent Head shall be responsible for the general working of the Department over which he presides, and for all the business thereof, and shall advise the Minister on all matters relating thereto.

Information to be furnished by Permanent Head.

16. Whenever the Commissioner directs, the Permanent Head shall forward to the Commissioner any information required by him in connexion with the administration of the Act, and, in particular, a return in duplicate showing the officers under his control, arranged under the head of the branches or sub-departments in which they are immediately employed ; the offices they hold, specifying division, class, and subdivision of class or grade ; the emoluments, salaries, allowances, and fees paid to, and an accurate description, in moderate detail, of the duties performed by each officer, the date of his birth, the date of his appointment, and the number of years he has been in the Service. The Permanent Head shall report to the Commissioner, whenever the necessity arises, what alterations, if any, are, in his opinion, necessary or expedient for the more economic, efficient, or convenient working of his Department or any branch thereof. He shall further report to the Commissioner what alterations, if any, are, in his opinion, necessary in the salaries, fees. or allowances of any of the officers under his control; and shall also bring under the attention of the Commissioner any matter, whether in relation to any officer or to the work of any branch of his Department, with which he may think it desirable for the Commissioner to be acquainted. All such returns and reports will be filed as a record by the Commissioner.

Fines.

17. All fines imposed under the Act or Regulations shall be reported monthly by the Chief Officer through the Permanent Head to the Commissioner and to the Auditor-General.

Conduct of Officers.

18. As soon as possible after the months of March, June, September, and December in every year, the Permanent Head of each Department shall report to the Commissioner the names of any officers under his control whose attendance or conduct during the preceding quarter has been unsatisfactory, and any such officer may be removed to any other place or district, or otherwise dealt with as for a breach of these Regulations.

Charges against Officers.

19. If any officer is charged before any Court with or is convicted of any offence, whether punishable by summary conviction or otherwise, the officer in charge of the sub-branch in which the officer is employed shall immediately report the circumstances to the Chief Officer, who shall deal with the case under Section 4G of the Act.

20. If an officer is on an indictment or presentment convicted of any offence he shall be deemed to have forfeited his office, and shall thereupon cease to perform his duties or receive his salary.

Return of Punishments.

21. The Permanent Head of a department shall cause a return to be forwarded not later than the 15th of each month to the Commissioner, showing all punishments inflicted by virtue of the Act or Regulations during the previous month. The return shall set forth the na2me of the officer, office held, nature of offence, and punishment. Such information shall be entered in a book against the officer's name, and preserved as a record in the Commissioner's office.

Officers under Suspension.

22. Where an officer is suspended for an offence, and the charge has been found to be not proven, full pay for the period of suspension shall be allowed.

Where the offence is admitted or proved the officer may be deprived of pay for the whole or any portion of the period of suspension, but in any such case the recommendation of the Chief Officer shall set forth, in addition to any other punishment proposed, the amount of pay of which it is intended to deprive the offender, and any such deprivation shall be regarded and recorded as part of the penalty.

Insobriety.

23. If an officer in charge or sub-charge observes at any time that any one under his supervision is unfit to perform his duties properly by reason of over-indulgence in intoxicating liquor, he shall temporarily suspend him from duty, and immediately report the matter to the Chief Officer of the Department.

Annual Report on Fifth Class Officers.

24. During the month of March in each year the Permanent Head of each department shall furnish to the Commissioner a report upon the conduct. diligence. and general efficiency of each officer in the Fifth Class of the Clerical Division.

Such report shall. in the first instance, be made to the Chief Officer by the immediate superior of the officer reported upon, and then forwarded to the Commissioner by the Permanent Head, with such comments as he thinks fit.

Upon the receipt of such report, and upon obtaining any further information which is necessary, the Commissioner will determine whether such officer is entitled to the full amount or any part of the prescribed increase of salary.

Officers of 60 years of age.

25. When any officer attains the age of 60 years the Permanent Head shall advise the Commissioner whether such officer is willing and fit to continue to perform the duties of his position or whether he should be retired from the service.

Return to be furnished of Officers over 60 years of age.

26. The Permanent Head shall furnish the Commissioner in the month of April in each year with a return of officers in his Department who have attained the age of 60 years or over, together with a report in each case as to whether the officer is able and willing to continue to perform his duties. Should the Permanent Head recommend the retirement of any officer over the age specified, he shall also state the reasons for such recommendation.

Every officer reaching the age of 65 years shall inform the Chief Officer of his Department, who shall notify the Permanent Head in order that he may make a recommendation to the Commissioner as to whether it is desirable or otherwise to continue the officer in the service.

Death of Officer.

27. The Chief Officer, through the Permanent Head, shall immediately report the death of any officer to the Commissioner.

Information to be furnished by Chief Officer.

28. Whenever requested by the Inspector the Chief Officer shall supply such returns or other information as may be required.

Quarterly Return of Temporary Employés.

29. The Chief Officer of each Department in each State shall furnish the Permanent Head not later than the twenty-first day of each quarter with a return showing the names and occupations of all persons temporarily employed at the end of the previous quarter, together with the date each commenced duty—the rate of pay, and the reason for his employment or for the continuance of same. Where the employment of a person has ceased during the preceding quarter, the date of his ceasing duty shall be quoted and a report furnished by the Chief Officer on his conduct and efficiency during the period of employment. The Permanent Head, within one week of receipt of same, shall make such recommendations as he may deem desirable against the name of each person so employed, and forward the return to the Commissioner.

Creation of New Offices, &c.

30. The Permanent Head of each Department shall report to the Commissioner whenever it is deemed advisable—

On receiving the report of the Permanent Head, the Commissioner may make a recommendation on the subject to the Governor-General.

Report as to excess of number of Officers.

31. Whenever the Chief Officer finds that the number of officers under his control is greater than is required to perform the current work of the Department, he shall forthwith report the circumstances to the Permanent Head, who shall advise the Commissioner. Officers in sub-charge are required to report to the Chief Officer when it is considered that a reduction in staff can be made through reduction in amount of work or re-arrangement of duties.

Use of Public Buildings for purposes of Residence.

32. When any officer occupies for the purpose of residence the whole of part of a building belonging to or occupied by the Commonwealth the Chief Officer shall notify the Permanent Head, who shall report the fact to the Commissioner. Postmasters and Others who are provided with quarters are required to reside in them.

Officers who rent Government buildings are prohibited from sub-letting any portion of same without the consent, in writing, of the Permanent Head of their several Departments.

Journals.

33. Unless otherwise ordered by the Permanent Head of the Department, every officer not immediately under supervision shall keep a journal showing daily the duties performed by him, and the time occupied therein, and shall furnish a copy of this journal when required to the officer under whose authority he is placed.

Obligations of Senior Officers.

34. Officers in charge of any sub-department, branch, or minor division of the Public Service, shall be accountable for the maintenance of. good order, and afford the utmost aid and support to the Chief Officer and Permanent Head.

Officers to Report Breach of Regulations.

35. All officers in charge of any sub-department, branch, or minor division of the Public Service shall report to the Chief Officer any Breaches of these Regulations which come to their knowledge.

Officers to Obey Summons.

36. Every officer who is summoned either by the Commissioner or Inspector or Chairman of a Board of Inquiry to give evidence upon any subject of inspection, inquiry, or investigation, shall attend at such place and time as is specified in such summons, and produce any official or public books, documents, or writings in his custody or control, material to the inquiry, and shall answer all Questions pertinent thereto, except that he shall not be compelled to answer any question which would tend to incriminate himself.

Attention and Devotion to Business.

37. All officers shall, during the hours of business, devote themselves exclusively and zealously to the discharge of their public duties, and shall behave at all times with courtesy to the public, giving prompt attention to all reasonable requirements. Officers having to undertake duty at more than one place of business shall, as far as possible, attend at regular periods, and shall post a notice at each office showing the days and hours at which they will be present.

Applications of Officers, how to be made.

38. The application of any officer upon any matter affecting his position in the service shall be made by the applicant himself, through the head of his branch, and the Chief Officer, to the Permanent Head of the Department, and if it be made through any other person it will be treated as irregular, provided, however, that in exceptional cases, an officer may, if he so desire, communicate with the Commissioner through the Permanent Head of his Department, in which case the communication shall, as soon as possible, be forwarded to the Commissioner with any remarks considered necessary.

Subordination of Officers.

39. Every officer shall obey promptly all instructions given to him by the officer under whose immediate control or supervision he is placed. If any officer has ground of complaint arising out of such instructions, or from any other cause whatsoever, he may appeal in regard thereto, through his immediate superior, who hall forward such appeal forthwith to the Chief Officer ; but he shall, nevertheless, as far as possible carry out any instructions which may be given to him until the same are countermanded by competent authority.

Compliance with Instructions.

40. Every officer shall in due course and at proper times comply with and give effect to all enactments, regulations, and authoritative instructions made or issued for his guidance in the performance of his duties.

Officers not to take part in Politics.

41. Officers are expressly forbidden to publicly discuss or in any way promote political movements. They are further forbidden to use for political purposes information gained by them in the course of duty.

Information not to be Given.

42. Except in the course of official, duty, no information concerning public business or any matter of which an officer has knowledge officially shall be given, directly or indirectly, by an officer without the express direction or permission of the Permanent Head or responsible Minister.

Outside Influence.

43. Officers are prohibited from seeking the influence or interest of any person in order to obtain promotion, removal, or other advantage. Any officer who considers that his claims for promotion or consideration have been overlooked may write a statement of his claims to the Chief Officer, who shall forward without delay such statement, with any remarks he has to make thereon, to the Permanent Head, who shall transmit it to the Commissioner for consideration.

Public Property.

44. All officers shall be held responsible for the careful use and preservation of all Government property in their possession, custody, or care. Officers in charge of public buildings shall, in the event of repairs being required, report to the Chief Officer, and shall not allow the buildings to fall into decay, or to become permanently injured, for the want of timely requisition for such repairs.

Borrowing or Lending Money.

45. Any monetary transaction between officers, either as principals or agents, whereby any interest or other return in money or kind is charged or paid, or borrowing money by senior officers from their subordinates, is forbidden.

Bankruptcy of Officers.

46. If the estate of an officer is sequestrated either voluntarily or compulsorily for the benefit of his creditors he shall, within seven days, give written notice thereof, with a statement or explanation of the causes of his embarrassment, to his superior officer ; and such notice and statement shall within seven days of the receipt thereof be transmitted, with a report, to the Chief Officer and by him to the Permanent Head, who shall forward same to the Commissioner, with any remarks he may desire to make thereon ; and, unless and until the Commissioner otherwise directs, the officer in question shall continue to perform the duties of his position and to receive his salary.

Certificate of Discharge.

47. Any officer whose estate is sequestrated either voluntarily or compulsorily shall apply as soon as he may legally do so to a Court of Insolvency for his certificate of discharge, and, within seven days from the date on which the decision of the court on such application has been delivered, shall inform the Commissioner in writing, through the Chief Officer and Permanent. Head, of the result of his application and thereupon the matter may be dealt with under section 66 of the Act. Provided that nothing in this Regulation shall prevent the case of an officer from being dealt with at any time under the said section.

Part III.— Miscellaneous.

Chief Officers of Departments.

48. The offices held by the following persons shall constitute the holders thereof ex officio Chief Officers of Departments :—

In the undermentioned Departments, the Secretary, until otherwise determined, may exercise the powers conferred and shall perform the duties imposed by the Act or by these Regulations on the Chief Officer:—

And in the case of those Departments any reference in these Regulations to a Chief Officer shall, unless inconsistent with the context, be taken to refer to the Permanent Head.

Power to "Fix" Salary in Special Cases.

49. On the recommendation of the Commissioner, the rate of salary to be paid to an officer occupying any particular office may be "fixed" by order at any sum within the limits of his class or grade, and such sum shall be the salary attached to Such officer while he holds such office; but no such order shall be made so as to diminish the rate of salary received by the occupant when the order is made.

Transfer of Officers from place to place.

50. No officer shall refuse compliance with an order of the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner directing his transfer from one position to another of equal importance in the same or any other part of the Commonwealth.

The circumstances of individual officers will receive due consideration, but, while attention will be given to objections of a personal or private nature, in view of a proposed transfer, it is to be understood that private considerations must give place to the interests of the service.

Should any officer object to a change of station or of work, on the grounds that it will involve him in pecuniary loss, or that the change is not to a position of equal importance, he may apply, through the Permanent Head, to the Commissioner for permission to decline the "transfer; and if the Commissioner finds that the objection is well founded, permission may be granted without prejudice to the officer's right of future promotion or appointment : Provided that he shall have no grounds of appeal against loss of seniority should another officer be appointed to the position and should the Commissioner determine that it is of higher status than the position occupied by the officer objecting to transfer.

Departmental Transfers.

51. Transfers from one position temporarily to another in the same Department for a period exceeding three months shall be submitted to the Commissioner for approval.

Officers Stationed in Remote Localities.

52. An officer stationed for a prolonged period in a remote locality, and who desires transfer, may apply to the Chief Officer, who shall after recording the application for consideration when opportunity offers, forward it through the Permanent Head to the Commissioner.

On the occurrence of a suitable vacancy, any such applications shall be brought under review by the Chief Officer, and if the officer is otherwise eligible, the length of his service in the remote locality shall be held to entitle him to special consideration.

On the report of the Permanent Head, the Commissioner will determine the particular places to which this regulation shall apply, and the periods of residence which shall entitle an officer to Special consideration as regards transfer.

Conveyance of Officers Transferred.

(Where cost borne by Officers.)

53. Officers who are transferred from one locality to another solely at their own request, or by exchange (except as provided for in the next regulation), must bear the whole cost of their removal. When transferred on account of misconduct, the cost must be borne by officers in fault, unless otherwise determined by the Permanent Head prior to removal.

(Where cost borne by Department.)

54. When officers are transferred—

the actual cost of conveyance of such officers, as well as that of their wives and children, will be paid by the Department.

55. The maximum amounts for removal of furniture shall be as under:—

In providing for cost of removal only necessary household furniture and effects shall be taken into consideration.

56. Before removal is undertaken, the officer shall, where practicable, obtain offers from at least two carriers, and submit same to the Chief Officer, who may authorize the acceptance of the more suitable, provided that the maximum amount above stated is not exceeded.

The Chief Officer may, in lieu of cost of removal, authorize payment of an amount less than the maximum prescribed for removal expenses to compensate for loss in any case where an officer elects to dispose of his furniture and effects instead of removing them to his new station.

An officer shall not be entitled to any compensation from the Government for losses or damages arising from removal.

Furniture, where practicable, shall be removed by railway if the cost be not greater than by other means of conveyance.

Vouchers must be produced for all sums paid.

Where exceptional circumstances can be shown to. exist, a reasonable amount in excess of the maximum under these Regulations may be authorized by the Permanent Head.

Increases and Increments.

57. It must be distinctly understood that all increases or increments provided for in any classification under the Act and Regulations shall be discretionary and subject to the recommendation of the Commissioner, the approval of the Governor-General, and the necessary provision for the payment thereof being made by The Parliament.

Increments when allowed shall be payable from the first day of the month following the date they accrue.

Where an officer receives no increase of pay on transfer, the time served in his former office may be counted in reckoning the interval for increment.

Promotion Examiners.

58. Whenever it appears to be necessary to subject candidates for a vacancy to a practical test of their qualifications, the Commissioner may appoint a committee consisting of the Inspector, a senior officer of the Department, selected on the recommendation of the Permanent Head, and a senior officer from another Department, to act as promotion examiners.

Provided that the Commissioner may, if he deems such a course expedient, add to or otherwise alter such committee go as to include other officers or persons more conversant with the duties of the position.

Officers not British Subjects to be Naturalized.

59. Every officer admitted to the Public Service before the commencement of the Act who is not a natural-born or naturalized subject of His Majesty shall forthwith, or so soon as he is qualified to do so, obtain a certificate of naturalization under the laws of the United Kingdom, or of the Commonwealth, or of a State.

Duty after usual hours.

60. Officers will be required to perform public duty beyond the usual hours, whenever it is necessary to bring up arrears of work, or to meet any temporary pressure of business. When a portion of the work of any office has fallen into arrear, the staff dealing with such work, or, at the discretion of the Chief Officer, the whole staff, shall be retained after the ordinary office hours until such arrears are brought up. Every officer shall, when required by an officer in charge of his branch or subdivision, remain after the usual office hours to complete work which the officer in charge considers necessary to be done on the same day.

Overtime.

61. Only work which, from its character or from special circumstances, cannot be performed during the prescribed office hours, shall be regarded as overtime work, for which extra payment may be made. The right to such extra payment shall be determined by the Commissioner, on the recommendation of the

Permanent Head, after such work has been completed to the satisfaction of the Chief Officer ; but, before any such payment is sanctioned the Permanent Head shall supply the Commissioner with such information as will satisfy him that such payment is fairly due; and. in every case where overtime is worked, a full record thereof shall be kept. No Permanent Head shall recommend any payment for overtime to officers employed in bringing up arrears of work which properly comes within the scope of their ordinary duties. Where it is possible to do so equivalent time off should be granted in lieu of overtime payment. Provided that overtime to the extent of twenty hours during any financial year may be paid to any officer, on the approval of the Permanent Head, without reference to the Commissioner. Provided, further, that no overtime shall be paid for until after 5.30 p.m., and unless the services of the officer are required after 7 p.m., and then only for the time during which he has actually been working. This Regulation applies only to officers who are required to attend on week days from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Overtime—Postmaster-General's Department.

62. Working overtime should be discouraged, so far as is practicable, but when in order to deal with the work extra attendance is necessary, the Permanent Head or Chief Officer should make arrangements to give equivalent time off when convenient to the Department, or he may authorize payment as follows :—

Two weeks consecutive attendance is to be reckoned, and every hour in excess of 88 hours may be paid as overtime, at the rates stipulated in the following Regulation. This Regulation refers particularly to the principal telegraph offices where there are shifts of staff. Overtime payments are not to be made at country offices without the express sanction of the Permanent Head or the Chief Officer. This Regulation applies only to officers in the Professional and Clerical Divisions.

Rates of Pay for Overtime.

63. The following shall be the rates of payment for overtime where such payment is sanctioned, and shall apply only to officers of the Professional and Clerical Divisions :—

Overtime—General Division.

64. The following shall be the rates of payment for overtime for officers of the General Division when such payment is sanctioned, viz.:—

Messengers, and such other officers as the Commissioner specifies from time to time, shall not be entitled to any overtime, except in special cases to be determined by the Commissioner.

Allowance for Tea-money.

65. Tea-money shall in no case be allowed unless an officer is directed, in writing, by the Chief Officer of the Department or other responsible officer to attend after ordinary hours, and works for at least two hours after the usual office hours. When tea-money is allowed it shall be on the following scale :—To officers receiving £500 a year and over, 2s. 6d.; £200 and under £500 a year. 2s.; and under £200 a year, 1s. 6d.

Tea-money shall not be allowed when overtime pay is given.

Payment for Sunday Work.

66. Where an officer is necessarily required to attend on a Sunday for the whole day the Permanent Head or Chief Officer may authorize the grant of a day's pay, or if employed for less than a day a sum proportionate to the time so employed. No allowance shall be paid for Sunday duty where an officer is in residence and where his attendance is intermittent and for brief periods.

No officer or employé in the Public Service shall be liable to dismissal or punishment or other disability for refusing on conscientious grounds to work on Sunday if he has previously notified the Chief Officer that he has conscientious scruples against so working ; but he shall not refuse when called upon by his immediate superior to perform Sunday duty in cases of necessity. If it should subsequently be found that an officer has improperly made use of this Regulation to avoid the performance of his duties, his conduct shall be regarded as a breach of Regulations under the Act.

Fees. Rewards. and Gratuities.

67. An officer shall not demand or receive for his own use any fee, reward, gratuity, or remuneration of any kind whatsoever, other than his official salary and allowances, for services performed by him, either in or out of office hours, in connexion with the Public Service.

Prosecuting Officers.

68. When a public officer, engaged in executing his official duty, successfully prosecutes an offender, and the magistrate adjudicating on the case awards him a moiety or other part of any fine inflicted upon and recovered from the offender, he shall forthwith notify the Chief Officer, and shall forward, together with the notification, evidence that he has paid the said sum into the Consolidated Revenue.

Attendance at Courts.

69. An officer subpoenaed or called as a witness must promptly notify the Chief Officer.

An officer required as a witness on behalf of the Commonwealth shall not be entitled to receive any witness fee, but in cases where the officer is required to travel he may be allowed his ordinary travelling allowance.

Officers subpoenaed or called as witnesses on behalf of a State Government or of any person shall not be entitled to retain any portion of the witness fees received, but must pay such fees to the Receiver of Revenue to be credited to Miscellaneous Receipts, "Other."

Officers who have had to travel to attend a court to give evidence as witnesses may be granted the ordinary travelling allowance, which should be charged to the Departmental vote.

Officers receiving witness fees shall make out an account showing the amount of the fees received, and shall forward such account, with the receipt from the Receiver of Revenue, to the Chief Officer

Fidelity Guarantees.

70. Every officer intrusted with the collection or expenditure of public moneys, or placed in any position of financial responsibility shall, when so directed by the Treasurer, furnish him with a guarantee policy of some assurance society approved by the Governor-General and carrying on business in the Commonwealth, or other satisfactory security for the proper discharge of his duties in such amount as shall be determined by the Treasurer. He shall continue such policy so long as he remains in the employ of the Government, and is required to find such security. In the event of any officer failing to pay the premium on such policy by the due date the Chief Officer may deduct the amount of premium from any moneys due to the officer and pay such premium to the company. The Chief Officer shall through the Permanent Head advise the Treasurer immediately any officer is called upon to collect or disburse public moneys. He shall also inform the Treasurer from time to time of any change of duty or responsibility that makes it necessary that the amount of security shall be decreased or increased.

On the discovery of a deficiency, the Permanent Head shall notify the Guarantee Company concerned and the Treasurer as to the fact of such deficiency and the probable amount thereof.

Immediately after the exact amount of the deficiency has been ascertained, a statement thereof, verified by the Permanent Head, shall be forwarded to the Treasurer, who will make a claim upon the Guarantee Company.

As regards Departments m the State of New South Wales other than the Department of Trade and Customs, until otherwise arranged, "the State Treasurer" shall be communicated with instead of "the Guarantee Company" mentioned in this regulation.

The foregoing arrangement shall continue in force until a Treasury Guarantee Fund is established in connexion with the Commonwealth.

Accounts and Public Moneys.

1. In the matter of accounts and the collection and payment of public moneys, officers are enjoined to conform strictly to the provisions of the Audit Act and regulations and such directions as are issued from time to time by order of the Treasurer.

Officers not to incur Liability on behalf of the Government.

72. No officer, unless duly authorized in that behalf, shall incur any liability or enter into any contract on behalf of the Government, or alter the terms or conditions of any approved contract.

Performance of Work outside Public Service.

73. No officer, except on the recommendation of the Commissioner after report from the Permanent Head and with the express permission of the Governor-General, shall—

Provided that nothing herein contained shall be deemed to prevent an officer from becoming a member or shareholder only of any incorporated company or of any company or society of persons registered under any Act in any State or elsewhere.

Provided also that an officer who at the proclamation of the Act performs any service for a State may continue to do so under arrangements then existing until the terms and conditions under which such service shall be performed in future are determined by the Governor-General by agreement with the Governor in Council of the State in which the officer is employed or otherwise.

Addresses and Testimonial:

74. No address or testimonial shall be accepted by any officer without the sanction in writing of the responsible Minister.

Applications for Leave of Absence.

75. Every application for leave of absence shall be made to the Chief Officer through the officer in charge or sub-charge of the branch in which the applicant is employed, and shall contain a statement of the applicant's length of service and the periods he has been absent from duty on sick leave or extended leave during the preceding three year's. The officer in charge or sub-charge shall report as to the conduct of the applicant and as to his compliance with these regulations, and whether the leave can be granted without detriment to the work of the branch in which the applicant is employed.

Leave of Absence for Recreation.

76. Unless otherwise directed by the Minister, the Chief Officer may grant to every officer of his department leave of absence for recreation for any period or periods not exceeding in the whole eighteen days in each year, exclusive of Sundays and holidays; such leave shall be dependent upon the good conduct and regular attention to duty of the officer ; provided that the Minister may grant the whole or any part of such leave.

The Chief Officer in each Department in each State shall make such arrangements as will allow each officer in his department leave of absence annually for recreation, as provided in the foregoing regulation; but if it is found impracticable to grant such leave in any year or for any other sufficient reason the Chief Officer may permit the leave to be taken in the following year, in addition to the leave for such year. Provided that in other cases, leave not taken during the year it accrues shall lapse.

Leave of Absence on Ground of Illness.

77. Applications for leave of absence on the ground of illness shall be supported by the certificate of a duly qualified medical practitioner.

The Minister, in cases of sickness or ill-health, may, on production of satisfactory evidence, grant extended leave, not exceeding three months, in accordance with the following schedule:—

78. Where in case of illness any officer who has received leave of absence for three months is not so far recovered as to be able to resume his duties, further extensions of leave may be granted with the approval of the Governor-General, in accordance with the following schedule; provided that on each extension of leave the applicant shall be subjected to an examination by a medical officer approved by the Commissioner :—

79. If any officer is absent from duty on account of illness, and such absence has extended beyond three months, he shall not be permitted to return to duty unless and until the Government Medical Officer, or some other medical practitioner approved by the Commissioner, has certified that he is fit to resume work.

80. When extended leave is granted other than on full pay the rate paid for Sundays and holidays shall be the same as that allowed for the period of leave.

81. No leave on account of illness shall be granted with pay if the sickness or ill-health has been caused by the misconduct of the officer, to satisfy himself on which point the Chief Officer may send a special medical officer to attend on and examine such officer at his residence. A fee of £1 1s. shall be paid to the special medical officer for 1rs attendance and report and if such report is in the opinion of the Chief Officer not favorable to the officer concerned, the amount of the fee so paid shall be deducted from any money which is or becomes payable to the said officer by

the Government. The same practice may be followed where an officer is suspected of absenting himself from duty without sufficient cause.

82. Leave of absence in case of illness shall not be reckoned as nor included in leave of absence for recreation.

83. Sick leave allowed under Regulations 77 and 78 may be granted in one or more periods, but the aggregate amount of leave provided for in the Schedules is intended to cover a period of three years, dating from the first absence on sick leave.

The second or any subsequent triennial period will commence on the date of first absence on sick leave following the date upon which the previous triennial period expired, and for the three years thus commencing the full amount of leave provided in the Schedules according to length of service may again be allowed.

Extended Leave without Pay.

84. With the approval of the Governor-General, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, leave of absence, without pay, may be granted to any officer for any period not exceeding twelve months, but the period of such leave shall not for any purpose be included as part of such officer's period of service.

Leave of Absence in case of Pressing Necessity.

85. In case of other pressing necessity, the Minister may grant leave of absence for a period not exceeding three months, without salary, to any officer, and such leave may be in addition to the leave for recreation.

Extra and Accumulated Leave.

86. Officers stationed in places remote from large centres of population, or whose duties cannot ordinarily be performed within usual regular hours, and when no compensation in time or money has been given for the extra time worked, may be granted by the Minister, on the recommendation of the Permanent Head, twenty-four days' leave of absence in any year, exclusive of Sundays, for recreation purposes.

Should an officer in a remote district not avail himself of leave in any year, it may be granted to him in a subsequent year in addition to the leave for that year, but the accumulated leave shall not exceed forty-eight days, exclusive of Sundays. This Regulation shall apply to all officers stationed in localities where, under ordinary conditions of conveyance, the time occupied on the journey from such places to the chief city of the State is in excess of three days, or where, in the opinion of the Permanent Head, the conditions are such as to warrant the granting of such leave.

In very exceptional cases, to which this regulation applies, the Permanent Head may, in addition to leave, grant such reasonable time for travelling, not exceeding two weeks, as circumstances warrant.

Short Leave of Absence.

87. The Chief Officer, or other officer authorized by the Minister, may, on sufficient cause being shown, grant any officer leave of absence not exceeding three days ; but all such periods of leave shall be properly recorded in a book to be kept for that purpose, and at the discretion of the Chief Officer shall or shall not be deducted from the next annual leave or accumulated leave. Provided that if the leave granted under this Regulation to any officer exceeds three days in one year, the excess shall be deducted from the officer's next annual leave.

88. Leave granted to officers who are members of the Defence Forces, for the purpose of carrying out duties imposed on them by Naval or Military Regulations, shall not, however, be deducted.

Furlough.

89. Leave of absence may be granted by the Governor-General, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, to any officer who has continued in the service of the Commonwealth or, in the case of officers transferred, in the service of a State and the Commonwealth, at least twenty years, for a period not exceeding twelve months on half-pay, or six months on full pay, but during such period of absence such officer shall not be entitled to receive any addition to his rate of pay. No such leave of absence shall be granted to any officer who has been reduced for misconduct or at any time deprived of leave of absence as a punishment for an offence under section 46 of the Act.

Annual Statement of Leave of Absence to Officers in all Divisions.

90. In the month of January in each year, each Permanent Head shall furnish to the Commissioner a statement giving full particulars of any leave of absence other than ordinary leave for recreation purposes granted under these Regulations during the previous year.

Public Holidays.

91. The following days or any days prescribed under the law of any State to be observed in lieu thereof in that State shall be observed as holidays in the public offices, namely :—

first day of January,

Commonwealth Day,

Christmas Day and the following day,

Good Friday and the following Saturday and Monday,

the anniversary of the Birthday of the Sovereign, and

Whenever any of the said days falls upon a Sunday the next following Monday shall be observed as a holiday in the public offices in lieu of such Sunday.

92. Where by or under the law of a State any day or part of a day is appointed to be or is proclaimed as a public holiday or bank holiday or half-holiday throughout such State or in any part of such State, such day or half-day shall be observed as a holiday or half-holiday (as the case may be) in the public offices of the Commonwealth throughout such State or in such part of such State (as the case may be).

93. The Governor-General may also by proclamation at any time appoint in addition to the days hereinbefore named any specified day or specified part of a day to be kept as a holiday or half-holiday in the public offices of the Commonwealth, or in any part thereof.

94. The Minister of a department, or the Permanent Head or Chief Officer thereof, may require such department or any part thereof to be kept open in the public interest for the whole or any portion of a holiday, and may require the attendance and services of any officer of such department during any such holiday : but in that case every such officer shall be granted in lieu thereof a holiday upon such other occasion as does not interfere with public business. Provided that when an officer is required to work for only half a day or less, half a holiday may be allowed in lieu thereof.

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CHAPTER II.

Classification of the General Division.

(Sections 15, 16, 18, 25, and 80(a).

95. The General Division shall comprise all officers not included in the Administrative, Professional, or Clerical Divisions, but shall not include any officer or class of officers to whom or to which, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, the Governor-General declares that the provisions of the Act shall not apply.

96. The Commissioner, after such investigation as he deems desirable, will arrange the officers of the General Division into grades, and, if found necessary, into sub-divisions within the grades, and will determine the scale or amount of salary or wages that shall be payable to the officers in each grade and subdivision. Any officer of the General Division who has served for three years, and has attained the age of twenty-one years, shall be paid a salary of not less than One hundred and ten pounds per annum.

97. The Commissioner will assign to each officer of the General Division a position in one or other of the grades, and will determine whether the salary or wages of any officer or class of officers shall be fixed at any sum within a grade or become subject to the increment prescribed for the grade.

98. Increments may, subject to Regulations, be granted to such officers or classes of officers in the General Division within the several grades as are determined by the Commissioner.

The granting of an increment under this Regulation shall be discretionary, and conditional on the good conduct, diligence, and efficiency of the officer concerned, and on the value of the work justifying the increase of salary, regarding which a report must be furnished to the Commissioner by the Permanent Head of the Department.

99. If any officer is in receipt of pay greater than the maximum rate assigned to his grade or office, he may continue to receive such greater pay until he can be employed in another office on work equivalent to his salary. In such cases the Governor-General, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, may fix by order the rate of salary or wages the officer is then receiving, so that it shall neither be increased nor diminished while he holds such first-mentioned office. The rate of salary or wages may be similarly fixed where an officer is in receipt of pay determined as the maximum for his office.

100. Notwithstanding anything contained in these Regulations, officers may, until the Commissioner has made full inquiries and classified them, continue to receive the salaries or wages provided under the State Acts or Regulations, but thereafter shall not continue to receive such salary or wages unless approved by the Governor-General upon the recommendation of the Commissioner.

101. Where in the opinion of the Commissioner the minimum salary of any grade would not be adequate remuneration for any officer or class of officers on first entering the grade he may assign to such officer or class of officers a minimum salary at any higher subdivision of the grade.

102. Any officer transferred or promoted at his own request to any office or grade in the General Division shall thereupon be junior to any officer already in such office or grade, but shall be paid an amount not less than that which he was receiving immediately before such transfer or promotion provided it be not greater than the maximum rate for his new office or grade.

103. Officers may be promoted from grade to grade by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner whenever vacancies occur in the next higher grade, but not otherwise.

104. The numbers of each class of officers in each grade shall be maintained as nearly as possible in the proportions that are from time to time determined for each State by the Commissioner.

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CHAPTER III.

Classification of the Clerical Division.

(Sections 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 23, and 24.)

105. The Clerical Division shall include all officers whose offices the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner directs to be included in such division, and shall be divided into five classes. Each of such classes shall be subdivided as set forth in the following schedule, and the rate of salary of an officer in a subdivision of any such class shall be that assigned to such subdivision in such schedule.

106. All new appointments to the Clerical Division shall be made to the First Subdivision of the Fifth Class, and the rate of the salary at which a person is first appointed to such subdivision shall be Forty pounds per annum.

107. Subject to the provisions of these Regulations, the salary of such officer shall, at the expiration of not less than six months, be increased to the rate of Fifty pounds per annum, and at the expiration of a further period of not less than six months to the rate of Sixty pounds per annum.

108. Every such officer shall thereafter be entitled, subject to Regulations, to receive an increase of Twenty pounds per annum, or such part thereof as is determined by the Commissioner, at the end of every succeeding twelve months until such salary has reached One hundred and sixty pounds per annum.

109. In the fourth and higher classes of the Clerical Division no officer shall be advanced within a class except by promotion from one subdivision to the next higher subdivision, and until he has been at least twelve months in the subdivision from which it is proposed to promote him, but any such advancement may be authorized subject to Regulations, whether there is or is not a vacancy in the subdivision to which the promotion is made.

110. No officer shall be promoted from one class to another unless he has served at least one year in each subdivision of the lower class, and then only a fill a vacancy or a new office in the higher class, provided that upon a report from the permanent Head and the recommendation of the Commissioner an officer may be promoted from any class to the next higher class, although he has not served one year in each subdivision of the class from which he is promoted.

111. No advancement within a class, or promotion from class to class, shall be allowed unless the Commissioner is satisfied by the reports of the Inspector and the Permanent Head that the officer is entitled by the amount and importance of his work, and by his efficiency, seniority, and good conduct to receive it. The existing classification in the several States shall be maintained until the Commissioner makes inquiries and classifies the officers of the Public Service.

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CHAPTER IV.

Classification of Professional Division.

(Sections 15, 16 (2), 43, 44, and 80 (a).

112. The Professional Division shall include Barristers, Solicitors, Medical Practitioners, Engineers, Architects, Actuaries, Land Surveyors, Draughtsmen, and others who, subject to the approval of the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner, are classified or admitted to the Public Service as such.

113. All officers in Class A in receipt of over £600 per annum (except those paid a specified rate by virtue of any Act) shall be paid such salaries as are recommended from time to time by the Commissioner and provided in the Appropriation Act. An officer may be classified in any subdivision of Class A according to the amount and importance of his work, and on the approval by the Governor-General of such classification, the salary attached to such officer shall be regarded as fixed in accordance with section 20 of the Act.

114. Officers shall be classified as under :—

115. Except in the cases of persons appointed under section 31 of the Act, all new appointments to the Professional Division shall be made to the first subdivision of Class F, and the rate, of salary at which a person is first appointed to such subdivision shall be £60 per annum.

116. Subject to favorable report by the Permanent Head every officer of the Professional Division in Class F who has been twelve months in the service shall be eligible, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, to receive an annual increase of salary not exceeding £20 until he reaches £160 per annum.

Provided that he shall be required to pass an examination qualified to test his professional knowledge of the special work upon which he may be engaged and his general fitness for promotion before he is promoted from Class F.

117. No officer shall be advanced within a class in Classes E to B of the Professional Division, except by promotion from one subdivision to the next higher subdivision thereof. No such officer shall until he has been at least twelve months in a subdivision of a class in the Professional Division be promoted to a higher subdivision thereof.

118. No promotion of any officer from class to class or within the limits of a class in Classes E to B in the Professional Division shall be granted, unless the Commissioner is satisfied.

by the reports of the Inspector and the Permanent Head that the officer is entitled by the amount and importance of his work, and by his efficiency, seniority, and good conduct, to receive it. The existing classification in the several States shall be maintained until the Commissioner makes inquiries and classifies the officers of the Public Service.

119. No officer shall be promoted from a class in the Professional Division to the next higher class, or be transferred from one department to another, unless he has passed the non-competitive examination prescribed in section 43 of the Act—such examination shall be of such a nature as will test his knowledge of the work to be performed in the higher position, and of subjects acquaintance with which would increase the efficiency of the department.

Provided that, where reported by the Commissioner to be unnecessary, examination may be dispensed with in the case of Barristers, Solicitors, Medical Practitioners, Engineers, Architects, Actuaries, Land Surveyors, and Draughtsmen employed and seeking promotion or transfer in the line of their profession.

120. Examinations for promotion in or transfer to the Professional Division shall be held from time to time and be conducted by a board consisting of three competent persons appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner. one of whom shall be a professional officer in the same department of the service in which the officer is employed, to be selected by the Permanent Head, one, a senior professional officer from another department, and one to be selected by the Commissioner.

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CHAPTER V.

Temporary Employment.

(Sections 40 and 80 (h).

121. Whenever in the opinion of the Minister the business of a department renders temporary assistance necessary, the Permanent Head shall apply to the Commissioner to provide such assistance, describing the duties to be performed and the probable period of employment ; if the Commissioner is unable to comply with this demand by transferring officers from other departments in the State in which such assistance is required, the Permanent Head or the Chief Officer shall select, in order of registration as far as possible, having regard to the nature of the work, from the persons whose names are upon the register in the State in which such assistance is required, such available person or persons as appear to be best qualified for such work, and shall supply the Commissioner and Inspector with the names of those selected. Provided that in cases of emergency in any State where the Commissioner is not resident the Chief Officer, on the certificate of the Inspector that no assistance from other departments is available, may select from the register any person considered suitable for the work to be done, and any such person may be employed until such time as the authority of the Minister can be obtained.

Application—How to be Made.

122. Every person applying to be recorded for employment on any temporary work in any department under the Commonwealth must forward an application in his own handwriting, stating his full name and address, the date of his birth, whether he is a British subject, length of residence in the State if not born therein, and, if naturalized, date of letters of naturalization, and a full description of the work desired by him and the work to which he has been accustomed. Application must be made as under :—

123. Every applicant must forward with his application documentary evidence that he is of good moral character and industrious habits, of sound bodily health, and possesses the physical strength necessary for the performance of the work which he desires and, if possible, testimonials from recent employers.

Applicants are prohibited from using the interest of any person in order to obtain temporary employment.

124. Every applicant for temporary employment in a clerical capacity must address the Commissioner or the Inspector (as the case may be) in his own handwriting in a communication of not less than 50 words in length, and, in addition to a general statement of his qualifications, must state whether he is able to write shorthand and use a type-writer, or whether he has been accustomed to accounts, and, if such be the case, furnish evidence thereof.

125. Every applicant for employment in any temporary work requiring the exercise of skill usually acquired in some profession, mechanical trade, or other occupation, must satisfy the Chief Officer that he possesses the skill and experience necessary for the work he desires.

120. Every applicant who, in the opinion of the Commissioner or the Inspector (as the case may be), has complied with the above regulations, and from the evidence furnished appears to be qualified to perform the work applied for, shall be deemed to be a fit and proper person to be employed in temporary employment, and his full name, and address, and his age, together with the date of entry, and a full description of the kind of temporary work which he desires, and such other particulars as the Commissioner directs, shall forthwith be entered in a book to be called the "Temporary Employment Register." Provided always, that, if the work desired is clerical, the Commissioner or the Inspector must first be satisfied with the applicant's handwriting.

127. Whenever any person whose name is recorded in the "Temporary Employment Register" is nominated for employment under the provisions of section 40 of the Act, an entry shall be made in the Register of such nomination.

128. The name of any person who accepts employment under the provisions of section 40 of the Act shall be struck out of the Register.

129. Whenever any person whose name is recorded in the "Temporary Employment Register" is proposed for appointment to perform temporary work of the kind desired by him, and he is not available or not willing to be so appointed, his name may be removed from the Register.

130. If any person omits to cause a reply to be delivered at the office of the Commissioner or the Inspector (as the case may be) within seven days to any letter from the Commissioner or the Inspector requesting him to state whether he is prepared to accept such temporary employment, his name may be removed from the register.

131. Every name which has remained on the "Temporary Employment Register" for the space of nine months from the date of entry shall be removed from the Register, unless in the meantime the applicant has applied to the Commissioner or the Inspector (as the case may be) to be re-registered, in which case he shall retain his position on the Register.

The Period of Employment.

132. No person who has been temporarily employed in any department for a period of six months continuously, or for nine months continuously where extended, or for six months on the whole in any twelve months, shall during the six months following such temporary employment be eligible for further temporary employment.

The services of any person temporarily employed may be dispensed with at any time by the Minister or by the Permanent Head or Chief Officer.

133. Whenever it appears in the public interest to be desirable in the carrying out of any public work or scheme, the Governor-General, on the recommendation of the Commissioner, may order that the temporary employment of all or any persons employed upon such work or scheme may be continued until completion of the same.

Payment of Temporary Employés.

134. The Permanent Head or Chief Officer, when forwarding an application to the Commissioner, shall state what amount of salary, fee, or allowance is. in his opinion, appropriate to the work to be performed, but the rate of payment shall be the same as is paid to permanent employés of the Commonwealth in the State for similar work.

Application for Re-registration.

135. When renewing an application or when re-applying after completing a term of employment, it shall not be necessary within a period of two years from the date of the first application to furnish further evidence of health and character.

Applicants for registration for further employment must forward with their application a certificate from the Permanent Head or the Chief Officer or the superior officer under whom they have been serving in the State that the work on which they

have been engaged has been performed in a satisfactory manner, and that they have been punctual in attendance, diligent, and well conducted.

Regulations Affecting Temporary Employés.

136. Every temporary employé shall be deemed to be subject to the regulations for the time being for the guidance of officers of the Commonwealth Public Service relating to—

Attendance ;

Absence from duty ;

Performance of duties ;

Holidays prescribed by section 72 of the Act.

Offences by Temporary Employés.

137. Any temporary employé charged with the commission of an offence may—

The officer suspending shall forthwith furnish the offending employé with a copy of the charge on which he is suspended, and require him to forthwith state, in writing. whether he admits or denies the truth of such charge, and to give any explanation, in writing, as to such offence for the consideration of the Chief Officer.

On receipt of such explanation, the Chief Officer, Permanent Head, or Minister may summarily deal with the offending employé, or, if such a course be deemed necessary, any person or persons may be appointed to make further inquiry and report.

138. If any temporary employé be found guilty—

then such temporary employé shall be liable to summary dismissal by the Minister, or by the Permanent Head, or by the Chief Officer.

In the case of minor offences he may be fined, reprimanded, or cautioned by the Chief Officer, who shall report same through the Permanent Head to the Commissioner. In the event of dismissal of a temporary employé, the Commissioner shall be notified.

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CHAPTER VI.

Employment of Married Women.

(Section 80 (d).

139. The employment of married women in the service is deemed undesirable, but if in any special case it should be considered advisable to depart from this rule, employment may be sanctioned upon the recommendation of the Permanent Head and the special certificate of the Commissioner in each case.

140. Unless the Permanent Head recommends, and the Commissioner certifies that her continuance in office is required in the public interest, a female officer upon her marriage shall, if she has been continuously employed for at least five years, be granted leave of absence on full pay in accordance with the following scale. At the expiration of any leave so granted she shall be deemed to have forfeited her office, and shall thereupon cease to perform her duties and to receive her salary :—

CHAPTER VII.

Promotion and Transfer with Promotion of Officers.

(Sections 21, 23, 42, 44, and 80(b).

Transfer of Officers from one Division to another.

141. On the report of the Permanent Head, an officer may with his own consent be transferred or promoted from one Division to any other, provided that—

142. No transfer from the General Division shall be made unless the officer is deemed the most eligible of those available, and if transferred he shall continue to receive the salary paid to him while in the General Division, but he shall rank in order of seniority as follows :—

Transfer and Promotion.

143. The transfer of an officer from one department to another, or from one position to another position in the same department, for the purpose of promotion, may be temporary for a period not exceeding one month, and the officer transferred shall not receive promotion to the superior class or position unless he satisfies the Commissioner of his ability to perform the work. If it appears to the Commissioner that such officer is not fitted to perform the duties required of him, he may if practicable be re-transferred to the position previously occupied by him in the department or to some other similar position.

Salaries of Clerical Officers on reaching age of 21.

144. Every officer in the Clerical Division shall be entitled, if of the age of twenty-one years, to a salary of One hundred and ten pounds per annum, provided he has been employed for a period of not less than three years in the Public Service, of which one year has been in such division, and shows by passing one of the prescribed examinations mentioned in Regulations Nos. 145 and 146 that he is capable of doing the work of an office to which the salary of that amount is attached.

The increase of the salary of any officer who has been paid One hundred and ten pounds per annum under the provisions of this Regulation and whom the Commissioner determines to be entitled to increment shall be Ten pounds for the twelve months succeeding such increase.

Examination to be Passed.

145. The examination under sub-section 6 of section 21 of the Act shall be of a practical nature, and shall be conducted by the Inspector, or any other person authorized by the Commissioner.

Officers shall be examined in (h) and in any five of the other specified subjects :—

(a) Précis writing.

(b) Letter writing.

(c) Making fair copies of rough and abbreviated notes.

(d) Handwriting.

(e) Shorthand.

(f) Typewriting.

(g) Knowledge of Departmental Acts and Regulations.

In lieu of any of the foregoing subjects the Commissioner may from time to time in special cases direct that an officer be examined in any other subject.

146. Officers in the Post and Telegraph Department in positions where operating ability is necessary shall be required to pass in the following subjects:—

Provided that the Commissioner may exempt from the examination prescribed in Regulation No. 145 or this Regulation any officer who has already passed an examination which, in the opinion of the Commissioner, entitles such officer per to such exemption, or he may for the same reason exempt an officer from examination in any one or more of the subjects prescribed.

Vacancies

147. When a vacancy occurs in any department, the Permanent Head thereof shall state to the Commissioner whether or not, in his opinion, it is expedient to fill the vacancy.

If it is found necessary to fill such vacancy, the Governor-General may, on the recommendation of the Commissioner and subject tp the provisions of the Act—

Mode of Filling Vacancies.

148. When a vacancy occurs in any office the following action shall be taken :—

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CHAPTER VIII.

Travelling Allowances.

(Sections 78 and 80 (g).

Part I.—General Allowances.

149. The following shall be the scale of travelling allowances:—

150. When officers travel by steamer or other vessel in which the fare paid includes subsistence, one-quarter of the ordinary rates to which such officers would otherwise be entitled shall be allowed.

151. Officers travelling beyond the limits of the State in which they are ordinarily employed shall receive an increase of One-fifth on the scale rates. Provided that this regulation shall not apply to officers employed at stations on or near the border of any State.

152. For journeys occupying less than one-fourth of a day, actual expenses only shall be allowed. All travelling allowances shall be in addition to the cost of conveyance.

153. The Permanent Head, with the approval of the Commissioner, may reduce the foregoing allowances in cases where the circumstances appear to justify such a course.

154. Where it is proved to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, by any officer, that the travelling expenses he would be entitled to draw under these regulations do not as a rule cover his actual expenses, the Commissioner may authorize a payment in addition to that set forth in the foregoing schedule of allowances.

Part II.—Allowances to Certain Officers.

155. The following shall be the scale for the undermentioned officers.

Postmaster-General's Department.

Part III.—Mode of Travelling.

156. Officers shall travel by railway if the cost be not greater than by other means of conveyance.

Whenever an officer does not travel by railway he shall be repaid the actual cost of the necessary and most economical means of conveyance upon furnishing receipts for such payment. Receipts will not be required for any amounts under five shillings.

157. Officers not in receipt of forage or equipment allowance who use their own bicycles when travelling on public business, may be allowed in respect thereof at the rate of 3d. per mile for journeys of 20 miles and under, but where the distance travelled exceeds 20 miles, the allowance shall be at the rate of 1½d. per mile for each additional mile. Proof must be given that the use of the bicycle results in greater efficiency and saving than would be the case were other means of conveyance employed.

158. First-class railway fares shall be allowed to all officers receiving salary of £185 and upwards per annum, and second-class fares to officers receiving under £185 per annum. Provided that in special cases the Chief Officer or Permanent Head may allow first-class fare to any officer.

Part IV.—Special Allowances.

159. The actual expense incurred by officers in the hire of a private room for official purposes when travelling on specially important duties may be allowed in such cases as the Minister, on the recommendation of the Permanent Head, shall determine.

160. When an officer temporarily stationed at any place and receiving a travelling allowance has to visit any other place, and thereby necessarily incurs extra personal expenses, he may be permitted by the Minister on the recommendation of the Permanent Head to draw such additional allowance for the visit as the Permanent Head directs.

161. An officer acting for another officer shall whilst so acting be entitled to receive allowances on the same scale as the officer for whom he is acting. The officer relieved shall cease to draw such allowances while the relieving officer receives them, unless the Permanent Head otherwise directs.

162. When the distance travelled or the state of the roads necessitates the use of two horses, a special report shall accompany the account.

163. Officers in receipt of commuted allowances when absent from duty, either on leave or through illness, for any period over a fortnight, shall be paid such portion only of their commuted allowances as the Minister directs.

164. In cases where line repairers and letter carriers are requited to provide horse and equipment for the performance of their duties, allowances ranging from £24 to £36 per annum may be allowed by the Permanent Head. Where the minimum rate is considered excessive, it may be reduced by the Permanent

Head, and where the. maximum rate is considered to be inadequate to meet the actual expenses of any officer, the Commissioner, on reasonable cause being shown, may authorize an increased rate. Where, by direction of the Chief Officer, more than one horse must be kept, half the prescribed allowance may be granted for each additional horse.

165. In districts where horses cannot be easily hired, the Minister, on the recommendation of the Permanent Head, may authorize a commuted allowance for the keep of horses.

166. Where any telegraphist is required by the Chief Officer to use a typewriter, and to provide the machine and accessories, an allowance not exceeding fifteen shillings per month may be made by authority of the Minister.

167. All allowances previously granted other than those in accordance with these Regulations shall be discontinued unless specially approved by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Commissioner.

Part V.—District Allowances.

168. The following shall be the scale of allowances which may, on the recommendation of the Permanent Head, be paid to officers living in localities where the climatic conditions are severe, or where, owing to their situation, the cost of living is exceptionally high.

* Class V. should include only tropical or very exceptionally remote localities.

In localities where these allowances do not, in the opinion of the Permanent Head, fairly compensate the officer for extremely severe and costly conditions of. living, the rates in the foregoing scale may be increased by the Commissioner, with the approval of the Governor-General.

169. The Commissioner, after report from the Inspector and the Permanent Head, and with the approval of the Governor-General, may raise or lower the classification of any district or locality, and may classify any locality where allowance is not now granted, or may direct that any locality be removed from the classified, list. The classified list and all subsequent alterations therein will be published in the Commonwealth Gazette.

Allowances now granted in any locality shall continue, in operation until it is determined whether, allowance shall in future be made, and, if so, in what class the locality shall be placed.

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CHAPTER IX.

(Sections 51-58 arid 80(n).

Life Assurance and Superannuation.

Officers to Assure their Lives.

170. Every officer, on the confirmation of his appointment, shall effect an assurance on his life with any of the Assurance Companies or Societies approved by the Governor-General, are willing to arrange for the necessary progressive increases from time to time on the sum or sums already assured without any medical examination other than that which was required in connexion with the original assurance. Provided, however, that this regulation shall not apply to any officer who at the time of his appointment is already assured in such Company of Society for benefits equivalent to those prescribed. A list of the Companies or Societies above referred to shall be kept in each department.

171. Every officer whose appointment is confirmed shall be considered as accepting and holding his appointment subject to the condition that a deduction may from time to time be made from the salary, wages, or allowance due to him of a sum sufficient to cover the premium on his life assurance. The Chief Officer may, if the premium be more than two months in arrear, or whenever any policy is liable to lapse within one month, deduct from the salary of the officer assured the amount of arrears of premiums and fines, if any, payable on account of assurance, and pay the same to the company with whom the officer is assured.

Amount of Assurance.

172. Every policy taken out as aforesaid by any person not already assured shall provide for the payment of an amount in accordance with the following scale, to the person assured on his attaining the age of 60 years, or to his personal representatives within three (3) months from the date of his death, if the person assured should die before reaching that age :—

173. The amount of assurance shall be increased by £100 for every £100 of salary above £500 provided that the assurance shall be so increased whenever the salary exceeds the amount of assurance. Such additions to assurance shall be made in conformity with a specified table of rates, and according to the ages of the assured at the times the assurances are increased.

174. Any policy taken out prior to entry of an officer to the service which provides for the payment of a sum of money to the person assured on his attaining any age less than 60 years may be accepted by the Commissioner in lieu of the prescribed policy maturing at 60 years of age. Any such policy must provide for benefits equivalent to those prescribed, and must otherwise conform to these regulations.

175. The following persons shall not be subject to the foregoing regulations relating to assurance :—

Payment of Premiums—Deposit of Policies.

176. All life assurances under the Act and Regulations shall be in the name of the assured, and every policy effected in pursuance of the Act shall be deposited with and remain in the custody of the Chief Officer so long as the assured remains in the Public Service, and the premiums payable thereunder shall be paid in advance.

177. If the person assured under any policy or policies lodged as hereinbefore provided has been transferred from a State to the Public Service of the Commonwealth such policy or policies may be delivered up to the Public Service Commissioner of the Commonwealth or to any officer of the Commonwealth duly authorized to hold the policies of officers in the Department to which the person assured has been transferred.

178. Premiums under the policies issued in terms of the Act and Regulations shall be payable on the 1st days of January, April, July, and October respectively. If the assurance is effected at any time other than on one of the said quarter days, the first premium for such policy shall be a sum at least equal to one quarter's premium in addition to the payment for the period from the commencement of the risk to the ensuing quarter day.

No Policy to be varied, altered, or discharged.

179. No contract of assurance once effected with any company under the provisions of the Act or Regulations shall be varied, altered, or discharged without the knowledge and consent of the Chief Officer.

180. The Chief Officer shall notify the company concerned of any increase of the salary or wage of the officer assured, which involves an increase in the amount of assurance, and the necessary addition to the amount assured shall thereupon be inscribed on the policy, or a new policy issued. Assurances so increased shall be continued with the company which issued the original policy.

181. Every policy lodged with the Chief Officer as aforesaid shall contain a condition to the effect that the policy shall not be made void for the non-payment of premiums until one month after notice of such non-payment has been served on the Chief Officer, and that the company will within one month after the service of such notice receive the overdue premiums without interest, and a further condition that the policy shall not, so long as the officer remains in the Public Service, be assignable or transferable either at law or in equity, or be charged in any way either wholly or in part.

Officers over Sixty years of age.

182. If the person assured under any policy providing for the payment of a sum of money elects and is required to remain in the Public Service after he has attained the age of 60 years, or if he remains in such service beyond the age at which any sum becomes payable under such policy, a sum of money equal-to the maximum amount for which he is required to be assured under these Regulations shall be held by the company in which such officer is assured until he retires or is removed from the Public Service or depart this life, and until this happens such company shall pay the officer so assured interest half-yearly at the rate of three per cent. on the sum retained.

Reduction of Assurance.

183. From and after the passing of these Regulations any officer who has effected a policy of assurance on his life may agree with the company which issued such policy to reduce the sum assured under the same to an amount at least equal to that specified in these Regulations corresponding to the salary of the officer, and such policy may be indorsed with a condition setting forth the terms of the agreement entered into between the company and the officer upon whose life such policy was issued.

Deductions from Salary in lieu of Assurance.

184. When an officer is unable to assure his life, or is unable to assure his life without a loading of five years or more being made upon his age, and in such latter case is unwilling to assure his life, the following deductions shall be made annually by quarterly payments, in advance, from his salary, viz., for every £100 of insurance which an officer would be required to effect under the foregoing regulations :—

185. The sums deducted under this Regulation shall be paid into a trust fund in the Commonwealth Treasury to be invested and accumulated in the interest of the person from whose salary the amounts have been deducted and shall be repaid with interest to the officer on his leaving the service, or to his representative should he die while in the employ of the Government.

Delivery of Policies in case of retirement.

186. When any officer retires, or is dismissed, or otherwise leaves the Public Service, the Chief Officer shall deliver to him all his policies of assurance which are in possession of such Chief Officer, and shall notify the company concerned.

Delivery of Policies in case of death.

187. On the death of an officer before he has attained the age of sixty years, the policies of assurance in his name which are in the possession or custody of the Chief Officer shall be delivered to the legal personal representative of the deceased officer.

Transferred Officers.

188. All officers who at the establishment of the Commonwealth were employed in a Department transferred to the Commonwealth, and all officers in the Public, Railway, or other Service of a State so transferred shall be subject to the following arrangements.

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CHAPTER X.

Appointment to and Transfer in the Professional, the Clerical, and the General Divisions.

(Sections 21, 23, 26, 27, 23, 29, 30, 32, 41 (d), and 80 (c).

Interpretation.

189. The word "Candidate" wherever used in this part of these Regulations shall mean a candidate for admission to the Public Service.

Part I.—Professional Division.

Examinations and Tests.

190. Every candidate for admission to the Professional Division shall be examined in the following subjects :—

*When making application, candidates must state in which two of these optional or additional subjects they wish to be examined.

† That is, candidates will be expected to obtain at least 240 marks out of a possible 600 for the subjects selected from sections 8 and 9.

191. No candidate for admission to the Professional Division shall be qualified for appointment unless he obtains pass marks as shown above.

192. For special positions in the Professional Division the subjects of examination will be such as are from time to time arranged by the Commissioner.

Part II.—Clerical Division.

Examinations and Tests.

193. Every candidate for admission to the Clerical Division shall be examined in the following subjects :—

and may, if the candidate so desires, be examined in not more than two of the following optional or additional subjects :—*

* When making application, candidates must state in which two of these optional or additional subjects they wish to be examined.

194. No candidate for admission to the Clerical Division shall be qualified for appointment unless he obtains at least three-fifths of the full marks in each of the first four subjects, and half the aggregate marks in the remaining two compulsory subjects.

In optional; subjects no candidate shall be credited with any marks unless he obtains at least 25 per cent of the full number allotted for any subject.

Certificates of Competency in Technical Work.

195. Candidates for employment in the Postmaster-General's Department, in positions in the Clerical Division where operating ability is required, must, prior to registration for examination, produce a certificate from the Chief Officer or other officer in the State duly authorized by the Permanent Head, setting forth that such candidates have the requisite technical knowledge and experience, and that they are capable of undertaking the work required of them.

Vacancies declared under Section 23 (4).

196. Where the Governor-General declares a number of vacancies in the fifth class of the Clerical Division, which may be filled by officers who have served for at least two years in the General Division, a competitive examination may be held of candidates of that Division who have been recommended for transfer to the Clerical Division by the Commissioner. The examination shall be of the same standard as that for admission to the Clerical Division. Vacancies declared by the Governor-General, under the. provisions of section 23, sub-section 4, of the Act, may be filled either by selection from the officers of the General Division, who. before the commencement of the Act qualified for transfer to the Clerical Division, under the law of the State in which they are employed, or from the successful candidates at such competitive examination to be selected in the order of passing.

Transfer in Special Cases from General to Clerical Division.

197. Examinations may be held as required for transfer under the provisions of Section 41 (d) from the General to the Clerical Division.

An officer applying to be examined should state the class of clerical work to which lie desires to be transferred, and he will be required by the Commissioner to submit himself to a preliminary test (clerical or technical as the case may be) to ascertain his fitness for transfer to the particular branch of the Clerical Division in which he desires to be employed.

The officer will be tested by one or more senior officers appointed by the Commissioner, who are acquainted with the duties of the position to which transfer is desired, and who will certify whether the officer is qualified for such transfer by experience and aptitude. If a favorable certificate be given, he will then be allowed to submit himself as a candidate at any ordinary Clerical, entrance examination, and will be considered to have passed if he is awarded the prescribed proportion of marks in the first five subjects, to which in his case the examination is confined.

The names of all officers who have satisfied the tests imposed will be recorded in their order of merit—to be determined as in the Clerical entrance examination—and they shall be regarded as eligible for transfer to vacant positions in the particular branch in the work of which they have been tested.

Part III.—General Division.

Examinations and Tests.

198. Every candidate for admission to the General Division, except at special examinations referred to below, shall be examined in the following subjects :—

Special,

In addition to passing in the above, persons applying to be registered for appointment as Inspector of Works or Clerk of Works must pass in—

Telegraph Messengers.

199. Every applicant for appointment as telegraph messenger must be between the ages of twelve and fourteen years. Every applicant nominated for appointment as telegraph messenger must be between the ages of thirteen arid fifteen years, and must cease to be so employed when he attains the age of eighteen years, unless in the meantime he has been transferred or promoted to some other position in the service for which he has qualified by passing the required examination.

Certificates of Fitness for Special Positions.

200. Every candidate for examination for any position where technical knowledge usually gained in some trade or other occupation is required must submit with his application satisfactory evidence by certificate or otherwise that he possesses the handicraft and experience necessary for the work of the position.

In every case where the Commissioner is of opinion that there is no evidence of fitness disclosed, he may exclude the candidate from examination.

201. Candidates for employment in, or officers desiring transfer to positions in the General Division where telegraphic duties form part of the work to be done, will be required to produce a certificate of competency for such work from the Chief Officer, or other officer in the State duly authorized by the Permanent Head.

Subjects of Examination.

202. The subjects of. examination for telegraph messengers, junior messengers, telephone switch operators, or any other office or position where, in the opinion of the Commissioner, a special examination is not necessary shall be those specified in Regulation No. 198, and all applicants to whom the examiners award one-half of the maximum number of maries therein in each subject set forth shall be declared qualified for appointment. Provided that candidates for the position of Telegraph Messenger shall be held to be qualified for appointment if they obtain half the maximum number of marks in spelling and handwriting, but their order of merit shall be determined by the number of marks obtained for these subjects and arithmetic. Any person who has qualified for appointment as Telegraph Messenger by passing in the subjects of spelling and handwriting only shall riot be eligible for transfer or promotion to any other position in the General Division until he passes in all the subjects mentioned in the schedule at some ordinary general examination.

203. The subjects of examination for other positions in the General Division shall be those specified from time to time by the Commissioner.

Minimum and Maximum Age.

204. No person, unless he is already an officer of the Public Service, shall be appointed to any of the undermentioned positions unless his age at last birthday, previous to appointment, was between the minimum and maximum ages shown hereunder opposite the designation of the office :—

Part IV.—Miscellaneous.

Competitive Examinations.

205. Competitive examinations shall be held at such times and places as the Commissioner considers necessary and due notice thereof shall be given in the Commonwealth Gazette, calling upon intending candidates to make application to present themselves for examination. The public notice aforesaid shall specifically state the times when, and the places where, the examination will be held, as well as the appointments or classes of appointment the selection for which is to be determined by the results of the examination.

Provided that when vacancies occur, for which it would be inexpedient to hold a general examination, the Commissioner may direct that a special examination be held in the locality where such vacancies exist. Due notice of such examination shall be given in the Commonwealth Gazette and in a newspaper published in the district.

206. If a candidate residing in one State desires appointment in another, it will be necessary for him to specifically state the same in his application.

Conditions attaching to Candidates.

207. Candidates for appointment to the Professional Division must, on the day of the examination, be not less than sixteen nor more than thirty-five years of age at their last birthday.

208. Candidates for appointment to the Clerical Division must, on the day of the examination, be not less than sixteen nor more than twenty-one years of age at their last birthday.

209. Each candidate for appointment to the Professional or Clerical Division shall forward with his application—

210. Every candidate when making application shall specify the centre where and the optional subjects in which he desires to be examined, and the particular State in which he wishes to be registered for appointment.

211. All applications must be lodged with the Commissioner at least two months before the date fixed for the commencement of any examination.

212. Every person desirous of being examined for appointment to the General Division must, except in the case of telegraph and junior messengers, be between the ages of 16 and 51 (or in cases of special duties 56) years, and must forward to the Commissioner an application in his own handwriting, stating his full name and address, the date and place of his birth, the particular appointment or the class of appointment he desires to obtain, the place at which he desires to be examined, and the State in which he wishes to be employed, and he must also forward a certificate of good moral character and industrious habits from his previous employer, or a clergyman, teacher, or a Justice of the Peace.

213. After an examination, successful candidates for appointment to the General Division shall forward to the Commissioner, within fourteen days after being notified to that effect, a properly certified extract from some official register of birth or other satisfactory evidence of age, and also a certificate of sound bodily health and freedom from physical defects from a medical practitioner registered within the Commonwealth, otherwise their names will be removed from the register : Provided that at the option of candidates such certificates may be forwarded prior to the examination.

Register of Candidates.

214. The name of every applicant who, in the opinion of the Commissioner, has complied with the requirements of these regulations shall be entered in a book to be called the "Register of Candidates," together with the date of such compliance.

215. No person shall be allowed to compete at any examination unless his name is entered in the "Register of Candidates" as an applicant for one of the appointments included in the public notice.

Naturalization.

216. Every candidate shall be a natural born or naturalized subject of His Majesty, provided, however, that with the permission of the Governor-General a candidate not so naturalized may be allowed to present himself for examination.

List of Candidates to be published.

217. After a Register of Candidates for an examination has been closed, the Commissioner as soon as practicable will publish in the Commonwealth Gazette the list of candidates in each State entitled to present themselves thereat, and a statement of the times when, and places where, the examination will be held if such times and places have not previously been notified.

Candidates to be specially informed.

218. Candidates whose names have been published as aforesaid will, as soon as practicable before the date fixed for the examination, be informed by circular of the place and time at which they are to present themselves for examination, and of the distinguishing number to be allotted to them at such examination. Candidates must produce this circular to the Superintendent conducting the examination.

219. Candidates who for any reason are not entitled to have their names in a "Register of Candidates" for any particular examination, will be so informed.

Fee for Examination.

220. Every candidate for appointment to the Professional or Clerical Division must forward to the Commissioner with his application a postal note payable to the Secretary to the Commissioner, Melbourne, Victoria, for Fifteen shillings, and for appointment to the General Division for Seven shillings and sixpence, being fee for the examination, and must state at which place he desires to be examined. If a candidate fails to comply with this regulation he will not be allowed to present himself for examination. The fee will be refunded if applicant is found ineligible for examination.

221. Candidates are requested to draw two parallel lines across each postal note, and to take a note of the number and denomination.

Appointment of Superintendents of Examinations.

222. In addition to the examiners to be appointed under section 27 of the Act, the Commissioner will appoint suitable persons for the purpose of superintending examinations, and will furnish them with printed instructions for their guidance.

Opening of Examination Papers.

223. The sealed envelopes containing the papers set for the examination shall be opened in the examination-rooms, in the presence of the superintendents and of the candidates, immediately before the time fixed for the beginning of the examination.

Transmission of Written Answers.

224. Immediately after the close of the examination the written answers shall be transmitted, under seal, by the superintendents to the examiners, who shall, as soon as practicable, forward to the Commissioner the examination papers, together with a return duly signed showing the marks obtained by each candidate in each subject, and, in the case of candidates who have obtained the prescribed number of marks in each subject, the order of their passing. Each return shall also contain a certificate, signed by the Examiner, that he has himself personally examined each paper, and has allotted the marks assigned thereto.

Cancellation of Entries in Register of Candidates.

225. Immediately after an examination has been held all the entries in the "Register of Candidates" shall be cancelled, and a new series of entries shall be commenced for each succeeding examination.

Publication of Results of Examination.

226. The results of the examinations will be published in the Commonwealth Gazette as soon as practicable after the examination, specifying, in order of merit, the names of the successful candidates, the total number of marks obtained, and the marks gained respectively in each subject.C. 11342.

Registration and Appointment.

227. The Commissioner will cause the names of all candidates up to twice the estimated number of new appointments, who have qualified for appointment by passing the required standard of examination for the advertised positions, to be entered in their order of merit in a book, to be called the "Register of Persons Qualified for Appointment." The date of the examination, the number of marks obtained thereat, and the State in which each candidate will be available for appointment shall also be entered. If two or more candidates obtain the same number of marks, the order of their merit shall be determined in the Professional Division by the number of marks severally obtained for (1) Arithmetic, (2) Algebra, and (3) Geometry ; in the Clerical Division by the number of marks obtained for (1) Handwriting, (2) Dictation, and (3) Arithmetic; and in the General Division by the number of marks obtained for (1) Arithmetic and (2) Handwriting ; and if these numbers be also the same, then by ballot. In the event of the number of vacancies estimated by the Commissioner being less than the number occurring during the nine months succeeding the examination, he may recommend for appointment in their order of merit such other qualified candidates as may be required.

228. The names of all candidates from outside the service not recommended by the Commissioner for appointment within nine months of the date of registration shall be ruled out of the Register, and names shall be likewise ruled out upon candidates in the Professional Division attaining the age of 36 years, in the Clerical Division 22 years, and in the General Division 51 years or in special cases 56 years.

229. New appointments in the Professional and Clerical Divisions shall be made from among those persons whose names are registered in the "Register of Persons qualified for Appointment," according to the order of their registration, and in the General Division according to the order of their registration for vacant offices, combined with fitness in each case for the particular office to be filled.

Persons registered shall only be eligible for appointment in the State in which they have been examined.

230. If any person declines to accept an appointment which is offered to him, his name may thereupon be removed from the Register. The name of a candidate may also be removed from the Register if he fails to reply within seven days to any communication from the Commissioner, respecting his nomination to the Public Service, addressed to him at his last-known place of residence.

231. Every person admitted to the Public Service shall in the first instance be appointed on probation for a period of six months, but his services may be dispensed with by the Commissioner at any time during such period. Before the expiration of the period of probation the Permanent Head shall report to the Commissioner on the manner in which the probationer has performed his duties, and upon his general conduct. Upon receipt of such report the Commissioner will recommend to the Governor-General that the appointment be confirmed or annulled, or that the period of probation be extended for a further period of six months.

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CHAPTER XI.

Election of Divisional Representatives on Boards of Inquiry and Boards of Appeal.

(Sections 46, 50, and 80 (e).

232. As soon as practicable after the date on which the Act comes into operation by proclamation, an election of divisional representatives shall be held in each State of the Commonwealth.

233. For the purposes of the first election to be held in accordance with section 50 of the Act, the officers of the Commonwealth Service shall be held to be divided into classes, whose duties correspond with those of the four divisions described in the Act, viz. :—Administrative, Professional, Clerical, and General, notwithstanding that under existing State Acts governing the administration of the Public Service other names may be applied to these divisions.

234. In the event of doubt arising as to the division in which an officer shall be placed, the Chief Officer of each department in each State shall have power, for the purposes of the first election, or until the classification of officers by the Commissioner has been completed, to decide under which division any officer in his department may vote.

235. As soon as practicable after the date on which the Act comes into operation by proclamation, and from time to time thereafter as is necessary, the Chief Officer of each department in each State shall cause to be prepared a record of signatures of all officers employed, numbering them consecutively, and keeping those of each division separate from those of each other division, and shall, whenever required by the Returning Officer, place the same at his disposal. At the conclusion of each election, the record shall be returned to the custody of the Chief Officer for careful preservation.

236. The Commissioner will nominate an officer in each State who shall, for the State in which he is employed, act as Returning Officer in connexion with the election of divisional representatives.

237. For such time as is required for the conduct of the election, and for necessary proceedings antecedent thereto, the Returning Officer shall, if necessary, be released from his regular duties, and shall, for the purposes of the election, be supplied by the Chief Officer of each department with reasonable clerical assistance, such assistance to be, as nearly as possible, proportionate to the numerical strength of each department.

238. The Returning Officer shall have authority to incur the expense in printing and advertising made necessary by these regulations.

239. All nominations of candidates for the position of Representative of Division shall be made, in writing, by not less than twenty persons entitled to vote in such division, except in the case of the Administrative and Professional Divisions, where nomination by two persons of each division will suffice, and shall be forwarded, together with the written consent of the candidate, to the Returning Officer six weeks before such date as is intimated for the election by public advertisement, inserted three times in the Commonwealth Gazette.

240. All voting shall be by post.

241. The Returning Officer shall stamp or initial all ballot-papers issued, and number them on the counterfoil, so as to correspond with the departmental record of signatures of officers.

242. There shall be delivered or posted to every officer, not less than fourteen days before the date of election, a postal ballot-paper, with a counterfoil attached, and also an envelope, addressed to the Public Service Returning Officer for the State.

243. Every ballot-paper shall be in the form or to the effect set forth in the schedule hereto.

244. Any officer who has received a ballot-paper shall record his vote in the following manner :—

245. After comparison of the signature on the counterfoil with the record signature, and if it be found to correspond, the Returning Officer shall detach the counterfoil from the voting-paper, and deposit the voting-paper in a ballot-box.

240. Any rejected ballot-paper shall be preserved with counterfoil attached, pending settlement of any dispute arising out of any election.

247. The Returning Officer shall have discretion in the matter of accepting any vote, where no reasonable doubt exists as to the identity of the voter with a particular officer.

248. Two scrutineers shall be appointed by the Returning Officer, and each candidate shall be allowed to appoint one scrutineer, and all such scrutineers may be present with the Returning Officer when he opens the ballot-box and counts the votes.

249. In the case of an equality of votes between candidates, it shall be decided by lot, in such manner as the Returning Officer determines, which of them is elected.

250. The Returning Officer shall, if qualified to vote at any election, be entitled to vote in the same manner as if he had not been appointed to act as Returning Officer.

251. The Returning Officer shall, subject to these Regulations, determine conclusively all questions of detail concerning any election.

252. All votes received prior to half-past four o'clock on the afternoon of the day of election shall be counted by the Returning Officer in the presence of at least two scrutineers, and the

result shall be communicated to the Commissioner, who will announce same in the Commonwealth Gazette.

253. The term for which a Divisional Representative shall hold office shall he three years from the date of his election.

254. A Divisional Representative shall forfeit office if he is found guilty by a Board of Inquiry of any offence punishable by reduction of salary or dismissal, or if he ceases to be employed in the Division for which he was elected or appointed as representative.

255. A Divisional Representative must be an officer employed in the State and division which he represents.

256. In the event of a vacancy in the office of Divisional Representative, arising from any cause whatever, or where no nomination for the position of Representative has been made, the Commissioner may appoint any officer in the same division, who shall act as Representative until the expiration of the period for which other Divisional Representatives are elected. For the period antecedent to the first election of Divisional Representatives, the Commissioner may nominate any officer of the division to which an appellant or accused officer belongs to act upon any Board of Appeal or Inquiry dealing with his case.

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SCHEDULE.

___

Voting-Paper.

___

Division.

Election of Divisional Representative for the State of for the above-named Division.

The Examination of Voting-Papers is fixed for half-past Four o'clock in the afternoon of the day of 19 at

List of Candidates Nominated.

See Directions at the back of Paper.

(Directions to be printed at back of Voting-Paper.)

Counterfoil.

Division.

Department

Divisional No.

Signature of Officer

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CHAPTER XII.

Boards of Inquiry.

(Sections 10, 46. 48, 49, 80 (e).)

Professional, Clerical, and General Divisions.

257. If any officer is charged with—

the action to be taken shall be as follows:—

258. All charges shall be made in writing, addressed to the Chief Officer of the department.

259. The Chief Officer may temporarily suspend any officer so charged.

260. In any office or branch not under the immediate control of the Chief Officer, the principal officer may, in emergent cases, temporarily suspend any officer so charged, but shall immediately report such suspension and its cause to the Chief Officer. Provided, however, that in the case of minor offences against discipline proved against any officer, such principal officer may caution or reprimand the offending officer, and at once report having done so to the Chief Officer, furnishing, at the same time, full particulars of the case.

261. An officer suspended for an alleged offence shall—

262. If upon consideration of the circumstances and the explanation (if any) the Chief Officer is of opinion that the offence has not been committed, or, if committed, is not of so serious a nature as to justify reference to a Board of Inquiry he may—

Provided that before any such fine exceeding £3 is deducted from the pay of an officer who has been found guilty of—

the Chief Officer shall forward the recommendation through the Permanent Head to the Commissioner for confirmation.

263. Where the Chief Officer is of opinion that an offence is of so serious a nature as to warrant reference to a Board of Inquiry, the following procedure shall be followed :—

264. The Board of Inquiry shall consist of—

Provided that, instead of One of such first or second class officers, the Commissioner may appoint any person he may deem desirable, whether connected with the Commonwealth Public Service or not. Any two members of a Board of Inquiry may exercise all the powers of such Board.

265. A Divisional Representative shall not sit on a Board of Inquiry to determine any matter in which he is personally interested, but in any such case the Commissioner may appoint any other officer from the same division to act in his stead.

266. When appointing a Board of Inquiry the Commissioner shall name the person who shall act as chairman.

267. The Board shall inquire into the truth of the charge or charges made, and after fully hearing the case report to the Chief Officer the proceedings and evidence taken and their opinion thereon.

268. On admission or proof of the charges, the Permanent Head, on the recommendation of the Chief Officer, may—

269. If none of the charges against the suspended officer are found by the Board of Inquiry to be proved, the Chief Officer shall immediately remove the suspension.

270. A Board of Inquiry, when inquiring into the truth of a charge made against any officer, shall—

271. The following shall be the scale of allowances which may be paid to any witness, not being an officer, summoned on behalf of a Department for his travelling expenses and maintenance during his absence from his usual place of residence, and the claim of any witness upon such scale, as aforesaid, shall be paid and satisfied by the Department concerned if it be certified by the chairman of such Board:—

In addition to above rates, reasonable travelling expenses actually paid may be allowed, but not to exceed one shilling for every mile a witness resides from the place at which he is required to attend.

The Crown will not be responsible for travelling or other expenses of any witnesses summoned by or on behalf of an officer charged with an offence, excepting in cases where the charge has been found to be not proved, and the evidence was, in the opinion of the Chairman, necessary and material.

The officer conducting the case for the department will submit the claim made by a witness for expenses to the Chairman of the Board of Inquiry, who will at the hearing fix the sum to be allowed.

272. In any case where a charge against an officer is submitted to a Board of Inquiry, a copy of all documents intended to be used at such inquiry shall, where practicable, be furnished to such officer at least seven days before the inquiry is held.

273. All officers upon the hearing by a Board of Inquiry of any charge against them shall be entitled to be represented by counsel, attorney, or agent, who may examine witnesses and address the Board of Inquiry in their behalf.

274. The Chairman of any Board of Inquiry appointed under the Act shall have power at any time to summon any person whose evidence appears to be material to the determining of any inquiry, and he may examine such person upon oath touching the matter to be investigated.

275. If, without reasonable cause, any person, not being an officer, summoned as aforesaid, being paid or tendered his reasonable expenses, neglects or fails to appear, or refuses to be sworn or to answer any question put to him by a member of a Board of Inquiry, or to produce all books, documents, or writings pursuant to such summons, he shall be liable to pay a penalty not exceeding Twenty pounds, to be recovered by any person authorized so to do by such Board in any court of competent jurisdiction in the State in which such person resides, provided that no such person shall be compelled to answer any question which would tend to incriminate him.

276. Every officer shall be entitled to a copy of the report of any Board of Inquiry which has investigated any charge made against him.

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CHAPTER XIII.

Boards of Appeal.

(Sections 10 and 50.)

277. The Board of Appeal under section 50 of the Act shall consist of the Inspector, the Chief Officer of the department to which the appellant belongs, or an officer nominated by such Chief Officer, and a representative of the division to which the appellant belongs.

278. The Chief Officer may nominate an officer to represent him for a specified time upon a Board of Appeal, or he may from time to time nominate any other officer who from his special knowledge or experience appears to him to be specialty fitted to act on a particular case of appeal.

279. The name of the officer nominated by the Chief Officer to act on a Board of Appeal shall be communicated to the Commissioner at least fourteen days before the date of hearing of appeal.

280. A Divisional Representative shall not sit on a Board of Appeal to determine any matter in which he is personally interested, but in any such case the Commissioner may appoint any other officer from the same division to act in his stead.

281. Appeals shall only be considered if made within one month of the date on which the report or recommendation affecting an officer is communicated to him directly, or made known by public advertisement.

282. An officer, in his appeal, shall set out concisely the grounds of his dissatisfaction with the action appealed against, and shall forward the same to the Chief Officer of his department in the State, who shall forthwith transmit it, through the Permanent Head, to the Commissioner.

283. The Commissioner, unless he is prepared without hearing evidence to decide in favour of the appellant, shall, as soon as may be convenient, forward the appeal to the Inspector, who shall fix a time for the consideration of the appeal, and shall cause the appellant, the Chief Officer, and the Divisional Representative to be informed of the time so fixed.

284. The Inspector shall be the Chairman of the Board of Appeal.

285. An appellant shall receive at least ten days' notice of the date upon which his appeal is set down for hearing.

286. At least seven days before the hearing, appellants shall supply the Inspector with the names of all witnesses desired to be in attendance, and who are in a position to give evidence relevant to the appeal.

287. The Crown will not be responsible for travelling or other expenses of any appellant or witnesses subpoenaed at his request.

288. The Chief Officer of the department in any State shall grant such leave as is necessary to insure the attendance of witnesses who are summoned to give evidence before a Board of Appeal.

289. Where officers are employed in remote localities, and where arrangements cannot conveniently be made for their attendance in person, or where they would be subjected to great expense in travelling to appear before the Board of Appeal, the Commissioner may appoint a competent person or persons to take evidence on oath concerning the matter of appeal. Such evidence shall be forwarded for consideration of the Board of Appeal. As an alternative, officers similarly situated may state their case in writing to the Board of Appeal, who may, at the request of appellant, allow any officer in the same division resident in the locality where the appeal is to be heard to appear before them on behalf of appellant.

290. Before proceeding to take evidence, all papers and correspondence bearing on the decision appealed against shall be read, or otherwise made available for the use of the appellant, provided that the Board may withhold any papers, minutes, or correspondence, if for any reasons of State, of which the Minister shall be the judge, it is considered undesirable to produce them.

291. The appellant shall have the right to call evidence in support of his appeal, and the Board may also call evidence to elucidate any matter connected with the case.

292. Any evidence deemed by the Board to be irrelevant may be excluded.

293. All evidence shall be taken in the presence of appellant or his deputy; but if the appellant or his deputy fail to appear, the Board may deal with the appeal on such evidence as is available.

294. The Chairman of any Board of Appeal appointed under the Act may at any time summon any person whose evidence appears to be material to the determining of any appeal, and any person so summoned shall attend at such place and time as is specified in such summons, and produce any official or public books, documents, and writings in his custody and control material to the appeal, and the Chairman of such Board may examine such person upon oath touching the matter to be investigated.

295. If without reasonable cause any person, not being an officer, summoned as aforesaid, being paid or tendered his reasonable expenses, neglects or fails to appear, or refuses to be sworn or to answer any question put to him by a member of a Board of Appeal, or to produce all books, documents, or writings pursuant to such summons, he shall be liable to pay a penalty not exceeding Twenty pounds to be recovered by any person authorized so to do by such Board in any court of competent jurisdiction in the State in which such person resides, provided that no such person shall be compelled to answer any question which would tend to incriminate him.

296. The scale of allowances which may be paid to any witness summoned on behalf of a Department for his travelling expenses and maintenance during his absence from his usual place of residence shall be the same as that allowed in connexion with Boards of Inquiry under the Act; and the claim of any witness upon such scale as aforesaid shall be paid and satisfied by the Treasurer out of the consolidated revenue, if it be certified by the Chairman of such Board.

297. The Board, as soon as convenient after the hearing of the appeal, shall transmit the evidence taken, together with a recommendation thereon, to the Commissioner, who shall thereupon determine such appeal.

298. The Commissioner, as soon as convenient after the hearing of the appeal, shall notify the appellant and the Permanent Head of his decision.

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CHAPTER XIV.

Directions to be observed by Candidates at Competitive Examinations.

(Sections 27 and 80 (c).

299. Candidates at examinations shall observe the following directions: —

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CHAPTER XV.

Instructions for the Guidance of Superintendents at Competitive Examinations.

(Sections 27 and 80 (c).

300. Superintendents at competitive examinations for admission into the Public Service shall conform to the following instructions: —