Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations (Amendment) 1994 No. 456 is an amendment to the Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations 1985, introduced to adjust the charge rates for export inspection services. Enacted by the authority of the Minister for Primary Industries and Energy, these regulations aim to align the fees with the economic realities and operational costs associated with inspecting export commodities. The primary objective of this amendment is to reduce the quantity charge for dairy produce from $1.53 per tonne to $1.35 per tonne, thereby providing relief to exporters in this sector. This change seeks to ensure that the fees remain fair and reflective of current costs, ultimately supporting the efficiency and competitiveness of Australian exports.

Scope and Application

The Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations (Amendment) 1994 applies to individuals or entities that hold an export permit issued by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service under the Export Control Act 1982. Specifically, these Regulations pertain to the quantity charge imposed on the export of prescribed commodities, with a particular focus on dairy produce. This amendment reduces the quantity charge for dairy produce from $1.53 per tonne to $1.35 per tonne, impacting those engaged in the export of such commodities. The Regulations are a subordinate instrument made under the authority of the Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Act 1985 and operate within the Commonwealth jurisdiction. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions in these particular Regulations, but the Act itself provides for the possibility of exempting certain classes of commodities from charge. The Regulations commenced on 1 January 1995, as stipulated in the commencement provision.

Key Provisions

The Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations (Amendment) 1994 (No. 456) introduces a reduction in the quantity charge for dairy produce exported under the Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Act 1985. The most operative section of this amendment is Section 10, which empowers the Governor-General to make regulations necessary for carrying out or giving effect to the Act. Specifically, this amendment alters the rates of charge for different classes of prescribed commodities. The amendment reduces the charge for dairy produce from $1.53 per tonne to $1.35 per tonne, as stipulated in the Schedule to the Regulations (Section 3). The Regulations impose specific obligations on parties or entities governed by the Act. These entities, which include those who have export permits issued under the Export Control Act 1982 and are subject to quantity charges, must now comply with the amended rates set forth in the Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Regulations (Amendment). By implementing these new rates, the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service ensures that all relevant parties are aware of and adhere to the updated charges for dairy produce exports. This includes ensuring that the correct charge is calculated and paid when an export permit is issued. Failure to comply with the provisions of the amended Regulations could result in civil or administrative penalties. While the specific consequences for non-compliance are not detailed in the text, under the Export Inspection (Quantity Charge) Act 1985, breaches could lead to fines or other civil penalties as determined by the relevant authorities. It is crucial for entities involved in the export of dairy produce to ensure that they are aware of and comply with these updated charges to avoid any potential penalties or legal consequences.