Naval Financial Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

Statutory Rules 1924 No. 13, titled "Regulations under the Naval Defence 1910–1918", was enacted in 1924 and aims to implement regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910–1918. The regulations were made by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, and they came into operation on 1 November 1923. The intent behind these regulations was to amend the Naval Financial Regulations, as specified in Statutory Rules 1923 No. 161, in order to address certain financial aspects related to the naval defence operations of the Commonwealth of Australia during and after the First World War period. This legislative instrument was designed to ensure that the financial regulations governing naval defence were updated to reflect the post-war circumstances and to provide clarity regarding the operational dates of these amendments.

Scope and Application

The Regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1918, enacted by the Governor-General in Council, apply to the financial management and operations of the Royal Australian Navy. These regulations specifically address the amendment of the Naval Financial Regulations, which govern the financial aspects of naval operations. They apply to any persons or entities involved in the financial administration of the Royal Australian Navy, ensuring that the financial regulations are uniformly applied across the organisation. The jurisdiction of these regulations is limited to the Commonwealth of Australia, encompassing all federal naval operations and financial transactions. While the primary focus is on financial governance, it is essential to note that the regulations are subject to further amendments and clarifications through subordinate instruments, which may extend or restrict their application as necessary. However, specific exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds are not explicitly stated in the text provided.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these regulations focus on amendments to the Naval Financial Regulations, which are crucial for managing the financial aspects of the naval defence operations. Regulation 36, which has been amended, specifically concerns the financial management and accounting procedures within the naval defence sector. The amendment adjusts the effective date of these financial regulations to ensure they align with the new operational start date of 1st November, 1923, as referenced in the Statutory Rules 1923, No. 161. The regulations impose certain obligations on the parties involved, primarily the naval defence authorities and financial officers. These obligations include adhering to the updated financial procedures and ensuring all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported in accordance with the revised regulations. The primary goal is to maintain transparency and efficiency in the financial operations of the naval defence sector. Additionally, all personnel involved must ensure compliance with the newly stipulated financial management protocols. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to serious consequences. Breaches of the financial regulations could result in both civil and criminal penalties. Specifically, Section 12 of the Naval Defence Act 1910-1918 outlines the potential for criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for those found guilty of misappropriating funds or engaging in fraudulent activities. The maximum penalties for such offences are not explicitly stated in the provided text, but they are subject to the provisions of the Act. Furthermore, civil liabilities may arise for any financial losses incurred due to non-compliance, necessitating restitution and potentially additional fines.