Naval Financial Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1935 No. 6, Regulations Under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1934, were introduced to amend the Naval Financial Regulations to align with the financial conditions of the time, particularly in response to the economic challenges presented by the Financial Emergency Act 1931-1934. Enacted by the Governor-General in Council under the authority of the Commonwealth Parliament, these regulations aimed to adjust the financial allowances and fees for naval personnel to reflect the economic constraints of the period while maintaining operational effectiveness. The policy objective was to ensure the financial sustainability of the naval service during an era of economic hardship, thereby safeguarding the operational capabilities and morale of the naval force. These amendments included changes to kit upkeep allowances, special allowances for deep-diving personnel, and modifications to the procedures for medical attendance and sick leave, reflecting a broader effort to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the navy.

Scope and Application

The Statutory Rules of 1935, No. 6, under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1934, pertains to the amendments of the Naval Financial Regulations, governing financial aspects of the Royal Australian Navy, including allowances, fees, and other financial matters related to personnel. The regulations apply to all officers and ratings within the Royal Australian Navy, ensuring that financial provisions are uniformly enforced across the naval force. The amendments introduced through these regulations affect various allowances, including kit upkeep, per diem rates, special diving allowances, and other specific financial considerations for certain roles within the navy. The application of these regulations is national, encompassing the entire Commonwealth of Australia, and extends to all naval personnel and their associated financial entitlements. The regulations specify that the financial adjustments may be subject to further amendments by the Financial Emergency Act 1931-1934, thereby providing flexibility to respond to changing economic circumstances. These regulations do not explicitly state any exclusions or exemptions, but they do provide certain discretionary powers to the Naval Board regarding the disallowance of free medical attendance and the charging for such services under specific circumstances. The broad scope of these regulations, as amended, ensures that financial and allowance matters within the navy are comprehensively addressed, reflecting the operational needs and financial policies of the Commonwealth.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910-1934 pertain to the amendment of financial regulations within the Australian Naval Defence forces. Section 1 of these regulations specifies that Regulation 3 is to be deemed effective from 1 March 1934, while Regulations 4 (b) and 4 (c) are to be deemed effective from 1 November 1934 (Section 1(1) and (2)). Section 2 amends Regulation 34 of the Naval Financial Regulations to include a provision for reducing the rates of kit upkeep allowance for ratings serving outside the Australian Station, subject to approval by the Naval Board (Section 2). Section 3 adds a sub-regulation to Regulation 45, granting a daily allowance to Signal Boatswains, Warrant Telegraphists, and officers promoted from these roles, when appointed to specific ships (Section 3). Additionally, Section 4 amends Regulation 48 to include new sub-regulations for special allowances for divers and attendants, as well as modifying existing rates (Section 4). These Regulations impose several obligations and requirements on the parties governed by them. Firstly, the Naval Board is authorised to reduce the rates of kit upkeep allowance for ratings serving outside the Australian Station (Section 2). Secondly, Signal Boatswains, Warrant Telegraphists, and officers promoted from these roles are entitled to a specific daily allowance when assigned to designated ships (Section 3). Thirdly, the Naval Board has the discretion to disallow free medical attendance or charge for such attendance under certain circumstances (Section 5). Lastly, applications for sick leave must be supported by a medical certificate, with an exception for up to three days of leave in any twelve-month period without a medical certificate (Section 6). Breach of these regulations may lead to various penalties and consequences. While the specific penalties are not explicitly stated within the text, it is implied that non-compliance with these financial regulations could result in disciplinary actions or financial penalties as per the broader framework of the Naval Defence Act 1910-1934. The maximum penalties, if applicable, would be dictated by the overarching legislation and any additional regulations or orders made under it.