Naval Forces of the Commonwealth Regulations 1906 (Amendment)

Overview

Statutory Rules 1918 No. 209, enacted in 1918, introduced specific regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910–1912 to address the need for qualified dental practitioners within the Commonwealth's naval forces. This legislative instrument was made by Sir Arthur Lyulph Stanley, the Deputy of the Governor-General, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council. The objective of these regulations was to establish clear eligibility criteria and terms of service for Surgeon Dentists within the Royal Australian Navy, ensuring that only suitably qualified and fit individuals were appointed to these roles. This was essential to maintain the health and readiness of naval personnel and to ensure that dental services were provided efficiently and effectively within the naval forces.

Scope and Application

The Regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910–1912 pertain to the appointment and duties of Surgeon Dentists within the Permanent Forces of the Commonwealth. These regulations apply to eligible dental practitioners who meet specific criteria, including age, ancestry, health, and qualifications, and are intended to ensure that Surgeon Dentists are fit to serve both domestically and internationally. Candidates must be under the age of 30 and over 21, of pure European descent, and the sons of natural-born British subjects. They must also be free from any physical or mental impairments that could hinder their service and must be registered or qualified under the States Dental Act. The regulations specify that Surgeon Dentists must undergo medical examinations, and appointments are probationary for one year. Upon confirmation of their appointment, Surgeon Dentists will rank with Surgeons according to their commissioning dates, though they remain subject to the orders of the Medical Officer of the Ship or Establishment. Furthermore, private practice is prohibited, and any fees accepted in special circumstances approved by the Naval Board must not interfere with their service duties. The amendments also include the addition of a distinctive dark green cloth between gold stripes for Surgeon Dentists.

Key Provisions

The Regulations under the Naval Defence Act 1910–1912 introduce several key provisions concerning the eligibility and appointment of Surgeon Dentists in the Naval Forces of the Commonwealth. Regulation 42 outlines the eligibility criteria for appointment as a Surgeon Dentist, including age restrictions, descent requirements, health conditions, readiness for service, and qualifications. Regulation 43 mandates that applications for appointment must be made on a prescribed form. Regulation 44 requires candidates to undergo a medical examination to determine their physical fitness for service in the Royal Australian Navy. Regulation 45 specifies that successful candidates will be appointed to the rank of Surgeon Dentist and will serve a one-year probationary period, after which their appointment may be confirmed if recommended. Regulation 46 clarifies that Surgeon Dentists will rank with Surgeons in the Permanent Forces based on their dates of commission, but will always be subject to the orders of the Medical Officer of the Ship or Establishment. Regulation 47 prohibits private practice by Surgeon Dentists but allows them to accept fees under special circumstances approved by the Naval Board, provided that such activities do not interfere with their service duties. Regulation 78 is amended to specify that the distinctive cloth between gold stripes for Surgeon Dentists shall be dark green. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the parties and entities it governs. Dental practitioners who seek to be appointed as Surgeon Dentists must meet the eligibility criteria specified in Regulation 42. Candidates must submit an application on the prescribed form as required by Regulation 43. They must also undergo a medical examination to ascertain their physical fitness for Naval service as stipulated in Regulation 44. Successful candidates will be appointed to the rank of Surgeon Dentist and will undergo a one-year probationary period, as outlined in Regulation 45. Surgeon Dentists must adhere to the ranking and duty orders specified in Regulation 46 and 47. They are required to serve under the orders of the Medical Officer of the Ship or Establishment and cannot engage in private practice without specific approval from the Naval Board. The Regulations also establish offences and penalties for breaches of the provisions. Although the specific penalties are not detailed in the text, it can be inferred that any breaches of the eligibility criteria, failure to submit a proper application, or non-compliance with the medical examination requirement could result in disqualification from appointment. Engaging in private practice without approval from the Naval Board may also be considered a breach and could lead to disciplinary action. The exact penalties for such breaches are not specified in the provided text but would likely be determined by the Naval Defence Act 1910–1912 or other relevant legislation.