Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Regulations were established in 1980 under the authority of the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Act 1971. This legislative instrument was enacted to provide stability to the dried vine fruit industry, specifically addressing issues related to price fluctuations and market volatility for dried vine fruits such as sultanas. By setting a base price for these products, the legislation aims to ensure a fair and predictable income for producers and to maintain a stable supply within the market. The regulations are designed to support the policy objective of stabilising the dried vine fruit industry, thereby protecting the interests of both growers and consumers. The enactment of these regulations by the Governor-General, on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, reflects the Commonwealth's commitment to regulating and supporting key agricultural sectors. The specific amendment in 1980, setting the base price for sultanas for the 1979 season, illustrates the practical application of the Act in responding to contemporary market conditions. This regulatory approach is intended to help mitigate the economic risks faced by producers, thereby fostering a more resilient and sustainable industry.

Scope and Application

The Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Regulations, made under the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Act 1971, apply to all entities involved in the production, processing, sale, or export of dried vine fruits within the Commonwealth of Australia, including sultanas. The Act is designed to stabilise the market for dried vine fruits by setting base prices and may impose financial penalties on those who fail to comply with its provisions. The regulations extend their reach across the nation, impacting all relevant industries and transactions within Australia's jurisdiction. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within the text, meaning that all relevant entities are subject to the regulations unless otherwise specified in subordinate instruments. The base price for sultanas for the 1979 season is specifically noted as $554.13 per tonne, which is established to ensure market stability and provide a reference point for pricing and transactions within the industry. The application of the Act and its regulations is comprehensive, with potential amendments and updates through subordinate instruments ensuring that the legislation remains relevant and effective in achieving its objectives.

Key Provisions

The main operative section of the Statutory Rules 1980 No. 197, made under the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Act 1971, involves an amendment to the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Regulations (section 2). This amendment specifically sets the base price for sultanas for the 1979 season at $554.13 per tonne (section 2(7)). This new price is intended to be used for the purposes of subsection 10(2) of the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Act 1971. The Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Regulations, as amended by this legislative instrument, impose specific obligations on the parties involved in the production, sale, and stabilisation of dried vine fruits. These regulations ensure that the base price set for sultanas during the 1979 season is accurately applied and adhered to. This base price is a crucial determinant in the financial arrangements and agreements concerning the trade of sultanas, and it directly affects the financial stability and market dynamics of the industry. Failure to comply with the provisions set out in these regulations may result in various consequences. Although the specific offences, penalties, or consequences for breach are not detailed in the text, it is common under the Dried Vine Fruits Stabilization Act 1971 and its associated regulations for breaches to be subject to both civil and criminal penalties. Typically, such breaches could lead to fines or other monetary penalties, and in severe cases, criminal charges could be brought against individuals or entities that deliberately contravene the regulations. The exact penalties would depend on the nature and severity of the breach, and would be determined in accordance with the relevant sections of the Act and any additional legislative provisions.