Meteorological Regulations 1915 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1919, No. 9, Regulations under the Meteorology Act 1906, were enacted by the Governor-General in the Federal Executive Council, and came into effect immediately. The Meteorology Act 1906 was established to address the need for comprehensive meteorological observations and data collection in Australia. This piece of legislation aimed to ensure the systematic gathering, analysis, and dissemination of meteorological information to support various sectors including agriculture, aviation, and disaster management. The 1919 Regulations serve as an amendment to earlier statutory rules, particularly focusing on the pricing and distribution of publications related to rainfall observations and environmental studies, thereby facilitating the accessibility of critical weather data to the public and stakeholders. These regulations were designed to streamline the distribution of essential meteorological data, ensuring that the results of rainfall observations and related environmental studies were readily available at a nominal cost. The policy objective behind these amendments was to enhance the public’s access to vital weather information, thereby supporting informed decision-making and preparedness for various weather-related challenges. The enactment of these regulations underscores the importance of accurate and timely meteorological data in the broader context of national development and public safety.

Scope and Application

The Meteorology Regulations 1919, established under the Meteorology Act 1906, pertain to the regulation of meteorological observations and data collection within the Commonwealth of Australia. These regulations apply to all individuals and entities involved in the recording, processing, and dissemination of meteorological data, including public and private meteorological services, government agencies, and research institutions. The regulations extend to all territories under the Commonwealth's jurisdiction and cover various meteorological activities such as rainfall observations, climatic studies, and the production of meteorological publications. The scope of these regulations includes setting standards for the collection and publication of meteorological data, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of such data, and facilitating the dissemination of vital meteorological information. Notably, these regulations are subject to amendments through subordinate instruments, allowing for adjustments to the standards and practices in response to advancements in meteorological science and technology. The application of these regulations is comprehensive, encompassing all meteorological activities within the Commonwealth, with no stated exclusions or exemptions, thereby ensuring a uniform approach to meteorological data management across Australia.

Key Provisions

The Meteorology Regulations 1919 (No. 9) under the Meteorology Act 1906 primarily focus on the dissemination of meteorological data, particularly rainfall observations in South Australia up to the year 1917, and a memoir titled "The Australian Environment" that discusses the impact of rainfall on the environment. Regulation 2(1) has been amended to include these specific documents (Regulation 2(1)). The results of rainfall observations, which have been meticulously recorded up until 1917, are now made available at a cost of 10 shillings and 6 pence per copy. Additionally, the memoir "The Australian Environment," which delves into the environmental effects of rainfall, is offered for 50 shillings per copy. These documents are intended for a wide audience, including researchers, environmentalists, and the general public, to foster greater understanding and awareness of Australia's meteorological patterns and their environmental implications. The Meteorology Regulations 1919 impose obligations on the entities responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of meteorological data. The primary duty of these entities is to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the data provided. For example, the obligation to make available the results of rainfall observations and the memoir on the Australian environment requires these entities to maintain comprehensive records and to publish these findings in an accessible and affordable manner. This mandate ensures that the public has access to critical data that can be used for various purposes, including scientific research, environmental planning, and policy-making. Furthermore, these regulations necessitate that the documents be printed and published by an authorised government printer, in this case, H. J. Green, Acting Government Printer for the State of Victoria, to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the information provided. Breaching the provisions of the Meteorology Regulations 1919 could result in both civil and criminal consequences. While the specific penalties are not detailed within the text, it is understood that non-compliance with the Act's mandates could lead to legal repercussions. For instance, failing to provide accurate and timely meteorological data could be seen as a breach of the statutory obligations. Such breaches might attract penalties under the Meteorology Act 1906 or other relevant legislation, including fines or legal action. The exact penalties would depend on the nature and severity of the breach, as well as any subsequent judicial decisions. It is also important to note that any misrepresentation or withholding of critical data could have broader implications, including potential harm to environmental initiatives and public safety.