National Security (Boot Trades Dilution) Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

Statutory Rules 1945, No. 76, made under the National Security Act 1939-1943, was introduced to amend the National Security (Boot Trades Dilution) Regulations, addressing the dilution of skills in boot trades during wartime. Enacted by the Governor-General in and over the Commonwealth of Australia, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, these regulations aimed to ensure that employers in Western Australia provided specific details about employees performing tasks typically done by recognised tradesmen, thereby classifying these employees as added tradesmen. The policy objective was to facilitate the training and employment of apprentices in boot trades, ensuring that the dilution of trades did not compromise the quality or efficiency of the workforce during the national security context of the period.

Scope and Application

The Statutory Rules 1945 No. 76, which are Regulations under the National Security Act 1939–1943, pertain specifically to the boot trades dilution during the wartime context of 1945. These regulations apply to employers in the boot industry, particularly in the State of Western Australia, requiring them to furnish detailed information to Local Dilution Committees regarding the employment of individuals who are performing work typically undertaken by recognized tradesmen. These individuals, referred to as "added tradesmen," are not officially recognized tradesmen or apprentices but are nonetheless involved in tasks that are normally within the scope of trade skills. The regulations also allow employers to transfer apprentices to other employers, subject to approval from the Local Dilution Committee. This legislative instrument thus aims to manage the workforce dynamics within the boot industry in a manner that aligns with the national security needs of the time.

Key Provisions

The key provisions of these regulations revolve around amendments to the National Security (Boot Trades Dilution) Regulations, particularly in relation to the wages of added tradesmen and the obligations of employers in Western Australia. Regulation 14(1) of the original regulations is amended to allow employers to transfer an apprentice to another employer if the latter has agreed to employ the apprentice in a suitable establishment approved by a Local Dilution Committee. This is a significant alteration as it provides flexibility in the placement of apprentices while ensuring their training is completed in an approved environment (Regulation 14(4)). Employers in Western Australia are mandated to provide specific information to their Local Dilution Committee. Within thirty days of the commencement of these regulations, employers must furnish written particulars of the names, addresses, ages, and occupations of all persons employed to perform work ordinarily done by a recognized tradesman. These individuals are deemed to be added tradesmen under the regulations (Regulation 16a). This requirement is crucial for maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with the regulations, thereby facilitating the oversight and regulation of the workforce in this sector. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in various legal consequences. Although the specific penalties are not detailed within the regulations, breaches of the National Security Act 1939–1943, under which these regulations are made, can lead to substantial fines and imprisonment. The severity of penalties can vary depending on the nature and extent of the breach, reflecting the seriousness with which the government views adherence to national security measures during this period. It is important for employers to fully understand and comply with these obligations to avoid any potential legal repercussions.