Postal Regulations 1935 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1937 No. 13, made under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1934, were introduced to amend the Postal Regulations and address certain issues regarding the use of un-obliterated adhesive postage stamps. This legislative instrument was enacted by the Governor-General in and over the Commonwealth of Australia, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, aiming to streamline the process of sending correspondence and merchandise within the Commonwealth while ensuring appropriate fees are paid. The primary objective was to update the regulations governing the use of postage stamps to reflect changes in postal services and to ensure compliance with the requirements for registration fees on merchandise sent within Australia. This amendment aimed to maintain the efficiency and integrity of the postal system by clearly defining the circumstances under which un-obliterated adhesive postage stamps could be used.

Scope and Application

The 1937 Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1934 amends the Postal Regulations to alter the rules concerning the use of unobliterated adhesive postage stamps. This regulation applies to individuals and entities sending mail within the Commonwealth of Australia, as well as those utilising the Merchandise Post service. The amendment specifically addresses the conditions under which unobliterated adhesive postage stamps can be used, allowing their application when affixed to enclosed post cards, letter cards, or envelopes, and when sent by Merchandise Post to a destination within the Commonwealth, provided a registration fee of at least fourpence is paid on the package. This regulation, therefore, impacts post office customers and businesses involved in mail services, ensuring compliance with the specified conditions for using postage stamps. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within the regulation itself, but the scope of application may be further defined through subordinate instruments issued under the authority of the Post and Telegraph Act.

Key Provisions

The Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1934, specifically Statutory Rules 1937, No. 13, amends Regulation 19 of the Postal Regulations. This amendment is crucial for understanding how postage stamps should be used for different types of mail. Regulation 19(1)(c) is modified to allow un-obliterated adhesive postage stamps to be used only when affixed to an enclosed post card, letter card, or envelope, or when sent by Merchandise Post within the Commonwealth with a registration fee of at least fourpence (Regulation 19(1)(c)(i) and (ii)). This amendment imposes specific obligations on mail users and postal service providers. Mail users must ensure that postage stamps are properly affixed and obliterated unless they meet the exceptions outlined in the regulation. For enclosed mail, the adhesive postage stamp must remain un-obliterated to facilitate tracking and verification. For Merchandise Post, the registration fee serves as an additional layer of security and accountability, ensuring that packages are appropriately monitored and insured within the Commonwealth. Failure to comply with these provisions may result in various consequences. Although the specific offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences are not detailed in the regulation, non-compliance with postal regulations generally can lead to fines, delays in mail delivery, and potential legal action. The exact penalties would depend on the interpretation and enforcement by the relevant postal authorities, but the regulation underscores the importance of adhering to these guidelines to avoid any adverse effects.