Live-stock Export Charge Amendment Act 1978

Overview

The Live-stock Export Charge Amendment Act 1978 was enacted by the Queen, the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Australia to amend the Live-stock Export Charge Act 1977. The purpose of this amendment was to adjust the rates of charges imposed on the export of various types of livestock, including cattle, sheep, lambs, buffaloes, and goats. This legislative change was likely prompted by economic considerations or market adjustments that necessitated a revision of the original charges established by the Principal Act. The policy objective behind the amendment appears to be the recalibration of export charges in response to changing economic conditions or to ensure that the charges remain reflective of the current market value and operational costs associated with the export of livestock. The Act came into operation on the day it received Royal Assent, ensuring that the amended charges were promptly applied to livestock exports. The amendments involved increasing the rates of charges for each type of livestock, reflecting a deliberate policy decision to adjust these charges upwards, presumably to account for inflation, increased operational costs, or other economic factors impacting the livestock export industry.

Scope and Application

The Live-stock Export Charge Amendment Act 1978 amends the Live-stock Export Charge Act 1977, extending its application to all entities and persons involved in the export of live-stock from Australia. This includes the export of cattle, sheep, lambs, buffaloes, and goats. The Act applies nationally across the Commonwealth of Australia, ensuring uniformity in the rates of charges applicable to these exports. It does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds beyond the types of live-stock mentioned. The Act itself provides specific amendments to the rates of charges applicable, but the scope of its application is further defined through subordinate instruments, which may specify additional details or exceptions as necessary.

Key Provisions

The Live-stock Export Charge Amendment Act 1978 (C2004A01979) amends the Live-stock Export Charge Act 1977. This Act modifies the rates of charges for the export of various types of livestock. Section 7 of the Principal Act is amended to increase the charge on the export of cattle from 25 cents to 50 cents, and from 75 cents to $1.50. Section 8 is amended to change the charge on the export of sheep from 3⅓ cents to 6⅔ cents, and from 7½ cents to 15 cents. Similarly, Section 9 increases the charge on the export of lambs from 3⅓ cents to 6⅔ cents, and from 7½ cents to 15 cents. Section 10 raises the charge for buffaloes from 25 cents to 50 cents, and from 75 cents to $1.50. Finally, Section 11 modifies the charge for goats from 3⅓ cents to 6⅔ cents, and from 7½ cents to 15 cents. The amendment imposes new obligations on entities involved in the export of livestock, particularly those who must pay the increased charges. The Act requires these entities to adjust their financial practices to accommodate the new rates. The increased charges mean that exporters must budget accordingly, ensuring they are prepared to meet the higher costs associated with exporting livestock. This includes recalculating export fees, updating invoices, and potentially revising agreements with clients or buyers. There are no specific provisions in the Act detailing offences, penalties, or consequences for non-compliance. However, it is reasonable to infer that failure to comply with the amended charge rates could result in legal action under the original Principal Act. This may include civil actions for non-payment or incorrect payment of the charges. Furthermore, the original Act may include provisions for penalties or fines for non-compliance, which would apply to the amended rates as well. Entities must ensure they adhere to the new charge rates to avoid potential legal ramifications and financial penalties.