Naval Financial Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

Statutory Rules 1978 No. 21, made under the Naval Defence Act 1910, were enacted to amend the Naval Financial Regulations concerning allowances payable in respect of authorized journeys. These regulations were issued by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council. The primary aim of these regulations is to update the meal allowances for personnel of different ranks during their authorized journeys, effective from 17 November 1977. The revised rates are intended to reflect changes in the cost of living and to ensure that the allowances remain fair and adequate for the needs of naval personnel.

Scope and Application

The Naval Financial Regulations, as amended by Statutory Rules 1978 No. 21, apply to personnel of the Royal Australian Navy and their dependents who undertake authorised journeys, as defined within Division 2 of Part X of the Regulations. These Regulations set out the allowances payable in respect of such journeys, which include meal allowances and other related expenses, depending on the rank of the individual and the location of the journey. These Regulations extend throughout the Commonwealth of Australia and are applicable to any authorised journey undertaken after the commencement date of 17 November 1977. The scope of these Regulations is limited to financial allowances for authorised journeys and does not extend to other areas of naval operations or personnel entitlements. Subordinate instruments may further extend or restrict the application of these Regulations as deemed necessary.

Key Provisions

These Regulations, made under the Naval Defence Act 1910, primarily modify the Naval Financial Regulations to update the allowances payable for authorized journeys. Specifically, Regulation 200 is amended to adjust the meal rates and total allowances for both capital cities and other locations, applicable to different ranks within the Navy (sections 1(a)–(d)). The new rates reflect updated costs for meals and overall allowances, effective for journeys made after 17 November 1977. The obligations under these Regulations require compliance with the updated meal rates and total allowances for authorized journeys. This means that any authorized journey falling within the specified period must adhere to the new financial provisions outlined in the amended Regulation 200. Personnel involved in such journeys must ensure that their expenses are calculated according to these new rates, and any documentation related to these expenses must reflect the updated figures. There are no explicit offences or penalties mentioned in these Regulations for non-compliance with the updated allowances. However, failure to adhere to the prescribed financial provisions could potentially lead to administrative issues or financial discrepancies. It is important for those responsible for managing or approving expenses related to authorized journeys to ensure strict compliance with the new rates to avoid any unintended financial mismanagement or audit findings.