Naval Financial Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1924, No. 17, are regulations made under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1918. These regulations were introduced to amend existing Naval Financial Regulations, aiming to provide a more streamlined and efficient financial framework for the operations of the Naval Defence forces. Enacted by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, the regulations come into operation immediately unless otherwise specified. The policy objective behind these amendments includes ensuring appropriate financial management and oversight within the Naval Defence forces, as well as addressing specific operational needs such as the remuneration for surveying officers and the use of motor cars for official duties.

Scope and Application

The Regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1918 apply to officers and ratings within the Australian Naval Forces and govern their financial remuneration and allowances. The scope of these regulations encompasses specific amendments to the Naval Financial Regulations, including adjustments to surveying pay rates, charges for mess traps, and allowances for officers travelling on duty. The regulations also detail conditions for the passage of officers' wives and families, and the use of motor cars for official duties. These regulations extend across the Commonwealth of Australia, impacting all naval personnel within the territory. Exclusions or exemptions are minimal, with the Naval Board having discretion in certain circumstances to approve special conditions or direct exceptions to the general rules. The application of these regulations can be further extended or restricted through subordinate instruments as deemed necessary by the Naval Board.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these regulations pertain to amendments in Naval Financial Regulations (1920, No. 248). Regulation 33 (1) is omitted, Regulation 34 (7) is omitted, and Regulation 37 is amended to include a new sub-regulation (9) concerning surveying pay for officers engaged in surveying duties. Additionally, Regulation 38 is amended to adjust the charges for mess traps for various categories of officers, effective from January 1, 1921. Regulation 59 is repealed, and Regulation 60 is modified to allow for sea-going rates of pay and allowances under special circumstances approved by the Naval Board. Furthermore, Regulation 74 is amended to include new sub-regulations concerning the passage of officers’ wives and families, the use of motor cars by officers on duty, and the deferred passage of ratings proceeding overseas. Finally, Regulation 75 is adjusted to correct a reference figure in sub-regulation (13), and Regulation 85a is amended to allow for exceptions where the Naval Board directs otherwise. These regulations impose various obligations and requirements on naval officers and the Naval Board. They specify surveying pay rates for officers engaged in surveying duties, which must be approved by the Naval Board. The regulations also detail charges for mess traps, which must be adhered to by officers in various categories. Additionally, the regulations govern the passage of officers' families and the use of motor cars for officers on duty, requiring certifications where applicable. The Naval Board is tasked with approving sea-going rates of pay and allowances in special circumstances and must also consider exceptions in Regulation 85a. Furthermore, the regulations address the deferred passage of ratings who are medically unfit due to their own default, with potential financial penalties for such cases. Breach of these regulations may result in various civil and criminal consequences. For instance, officers not complying with the specified surveying pay rates or mess trap charges may face financial discrepancies or audits. Failure to adhere to the conditions for the passage of officers’ families or the use of motor cars on duty could result in disciplinary action. Additionally, ratings found medically unfit due to their own default may be debited for charges incurred by the Shipping Company. While the specific penalties are not detailed in the text, breaches of these regulations could lead to administrative actions, fines, or other disciplinary measures as prescribed by the Naval Defence Act 1910-1918 and associated legal frameworks.