Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1918, No. 22, which amend the Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913, were enacted to introduce a streamlined process for the redirection of telegrams within the Commonwealth. This legislative instrument addresses the need for efficient and flexible communication services by allowing telegrams to be redirected from one post office to another at the request of the addressee or their agent. It was enacted by the Governor-General in Council, under the authority of the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916, with the aim of ensuring that such services are both practical and economical, charging half the original fee for redirected telegrams with a stipulated minimum charge. This amendment seeks to enhance the utility of postal services while maintaining financial prudence.

Scope and Application

The amended regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916 applies to telegrams that are subject to redirection and retransmission within the Commonwealth of Australia. This regulation allows for the redirection of telegrams from one office to another upon the written request of the addressee or their agent. The regulation specifies that, except as provided in regulation 362, such redirected telegrams are charged at half the original rate, with a minimum charge of Sixpence for ordinary telegrams and One shilling for urgent telegrams. This charge must be paid prior to delivery of the telegram. The regulation is a statutory rule made by the Governor-General in Council and comes into effect immediately upon its promulgation. The regulation extends its application across the entire Commonwealth, and while it primarily focuses on the redirection of telegrams, it does not specify any exclusions or exemptions within the provided text. The regulation is an amendment to the existing Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913 and is part of the broader legislative framework governing postal and telegraphic services within Australia.

Key Provisions

The amended Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916, specifically Regulation 360, allows for the redirection and retransmission of telegrams within the Commonwealth at the written request of the addressee or their agent. This regulation replaces the previous Regulation 360 from the Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913. The new regulation stipulates that telegrams redirected and retransmitted from one office to another within the Commonwealth shall incur a charge of half the original cost, with a minimum charge of Sixpence for ordinary telegrams and One shilling for urgent telegrams. This charge must be paid before the telegram is delivered. Parties or entities governed by this regulation must adhere to the specific requirements for redirecting and retransmitting telegrams as outlined. For instance, if an addressee wishes to redirect a telegram, they must submit a written request to the relevant postal office. This request must be clear and specific, identifying the telegram to be redirected and the new destination. The regulation also imposes the obligation on the postal authorities to process these requests efficiently and to charge the correct fee as stipulated. The minimum charges ensure that the service remains affordable while also covering the costs of retransmission. Failure to comply with the provisions of this regulation can result in penalties or consequences. Although the specific penalties are not detailed in the legislation, breaches of regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916 can typically lead to fines or other administrative actions. The imposition of incorrect charges or failure to process redirection requests correctly could be seen as non-compliance, potentially leading to financial penalties for the postal authorities or dissatisfaction among users. It is important for all parties involved to understand and follow the regulation to avoid such repercussions.