Ms Jane Lesley Aagaard granted the title "Honourable" for life

Overview

The Commonwealth of Australia enacts this Act to provide for the recognition of certain individuals with the title "Honourable" for life. Enacted in 2012, this Act was established to formally acknowledge the distinguished service and contributions of individuals to the nation, particularly those who have held significant public offices. The policy objective underpinning this legislation is to honour and recognise the lifetime of service and dedication of individuals who have played a pivotal role in public life. Enacted by the Parliament of Australia, the Act reflects the nation's commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the achievements and contributions of its citizens in public service.

Scope and Application

The Act C2012G00283 pertains to the granting of a title to an individual, in this instance, Ms Jane Lesley Aagaard, who is granted the title “Honourable” for life. This Act applies specifically to Ms Aagaard, recognising her contributions and achievements in a manner that extends personal honour and distinction. The geographic scope of this legislation is limited to the Commonwealth of Australia, as it involves a title conferred by Her Majesty The Queen, thereby falling under federal jurisdiction. The Act does not detail any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds that might apply to its implementation. It is a singular, personal grant that does not extend to other individuals or entities. The application of this Act is not extended or restricted by any subordinate instruments, as it is a specific royal grant.

Key Provisions

The key provisions of the Gazette C2012G00283 primarily involve the formal recognition of an individual's lifetime title. Section (1) of the Gazette notifies the public of the approval by Her Majesty The Queen to grant Ms Jane Lesley Aagaard the title “Honourable” for life. This title, as stated, is a mark of respect and is generally associated with individuals who have held high office or who have rendered significant service to the nation. The Gazette serves as the formal medium for announcing such honours, ensuring transparency and public acknowledgment. The obligations imposed by this Act are primarily informational and ceremonial. The Gazette itself acts as a conduit for official announcements, ensuring that such recognitions are documented and accessible to the public. The use of the Gazette means that the announcement of Ms Aagaard’s title is considered an official state record, providing a formal, verifiable account of the honour granted. In terms of breaches and consequences, the Gazette itself does not outline specific offences or penalties related to the misuse of titles or the misreporting of honours. However, the misuse of titles granted by the Crown can lead to legal ramifications under other statutes, such as the Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act 1925. Under this Act, individuals who misuse their titles or honours for personal gain or in a manner contrary to the intent of the honour can face criminal penalties. The misuse of titles can result in fines and imprisonment, although the specific penalties would be determined by the courts based on the nature and severity of the offence. The Gazette, therefore, serves to uphold the integrity of the honours system by ensuring that such titles are granted and recognised in an official and transparent manner.