Post and Telegraph Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules of 1922 No. 91, which amend the Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913, were enacted by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the Federal Executive Council under the authority of the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916. These regulations introduce specific provisions for the registration of abbreviated (code) telegraphic addresses for telegrams sent both within and beyond the Commonwealth of Australia, addressing a gap in the existing legislative framework by establishing a formal process and fee structure for such registrations. This legislative instrument aims to streamline the administration of telegraphic communications by providing a structured and regulated approach to abbreviated addresses, ensuring clarity and efficiency in the delivery of telegrams.

Scope and Application

The amended Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913, brought into effect by Statutory Rules 1922 No. 91, primarily govern the registration of abbreviated telegraphic addresses within the Commonwealth of Australia. These regulations apply to any individual or entity wishing to register an abbreviated address for the receipt of telegrams, both from within the Commonwealth and from overseas. The geographic scope of these regulations is nationwide, affecting all states and territories within Australia. The registration of abbreviated addresses is subject to annual or monthly fees, depending on the timing of the registration, with specific provisions for late renewals and dual registrations. The regulations also specify the conditions under which abbreviated addresses can be used for telegrams within and beyond the Commonwealth, and they mandate the inclusion of the word "care" or a similar term when a telegram is addressed to someone at an unregistered abbreviated address. The regulations extend their application through the specified fee structures and conditions, ensuring that all users are compliant with the set requirements for address registration and telegram delivery.

Key Provisions

The principal amendments to the Post and Telegraph Regulations 1913, as outlined in Statutory Rules 1922 No. 91, primarily pertain to the registration and use of abbreviated (code) telegraphic addresses. Regulation 336 establishes the requirements for registering such addresses for telegrams received within the Commonwealth, stipulating an annual fee of Two Pounds Two Shillings, with provisions for monthly payments and penalties for non-renewal (section 1). Regulation 401 addresses the registration of abbreviated addresses for telegrams received from places beyond the Commonwealth, setting a different fee structure and outlining the conditions for registration (section 1(b) and (c)). Additionally, Regulation 400, which is amended to reflect the changes related to abbreviated addresses, now includes a heading explicitly referencing these addresses (section 2). It is imperative that any entity or individual registering an abbreviated address adheres to the prescribed conditions and fees to ensure proper registration and use. The obligations imposed by these regulations are multifaceted. Firstly, any person or firm seeking to register an abbreviated address, whether for domestic or international telegrams, must comply with the specified fee structures and timelines (section 1(1), (2), and (4)). They must also ensure that the registration is renewed annually, with penalties for failure to do so (section 1(3)). Furthermore, if a telegram is addressed to someone other than the registrant at an abbreviated address, the sender must include the word "care" or an equivalent term to avoid non-delivery and additional costs (section 1(7) and (8)). Additionally, the registrant must not use an abbreviated address registered for international telegrams for domestic purposes without dual registration (section 1(6)). Breaches of these regulations could result in several consequences. Non-payment or late payment of fees, as well as failure to renew an address registration, may result in the invalidation of the abbreviated address, necessitating re-registration at the full annual fee (section 1(3)). Furthermore, if a telegram is incorrectly addressed without the required term "care," the sender will be liable to pay the cost of a service telegram to rectify the address (section 1(8)). There is no explicit mention of specific penalties for these breaches within the provided text; however, the requirement to adhere to the prescribed procedures and fees underscores the importance of compliance to avoid such issues.