Postal, Telegraphic and Telephone Regulations (Amendment) (Provisional)

Overview

The Statutory Rules of 1911, No. 89, enact Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1910, addressing immediate operational needs within the postal system. The urgency of these amendments, particularly concerning the classification and treatment of magazines and printed papers, was acknowledged by the Governor-General, who issued these regulations with the advice of the Federal Executive Council. This legislative instrument aims to streamline postal operations and ensure the efficient handling of printed materials within and between Australia, Papua (British New Guinea), New Zealand, and Fiji. The policy objective is to maintain effective postal services by updating regulations to accommodate new types of printed matter and to ensure the smooth flow of correspondence and publications.

Scope and Application

The Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1910, as amended, apply to the mailing of packets and printed papers within the Commonwealth of Australia, as well as to destinations including Papua (British New Guinea), New Zealand, and Fiji. The regulations specifically address the classification and treatment of magazines and printed papers, defining them in detail to ensure clarity in their postal handling. Notably, the term "magazine" encompasses various types of serial publications, and certain printed materials accompanying these magazines are also covered under the regulations. The revised regulations replace previous provisions and establish a comprehensive framework for the treatment of printed papers, including a wide range of printed materials such as pamphlets, music sheets, and various cards and notices. The regulations also extend to the inclusion of paper patterns printed in Australia that accompany fashion journals. These regulations come into immediate operation, reflecting the urgency of their implementation, and they are designed to streamline and standardise the postal services across the specified regions.

Key Provisions

The Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1910, as amended, contain several key provisions. Section 1 introduces amendments to the existing postal regulations by defining the term "magazine" (Regulation 1). This definition includes magazines, reviews, serials, and similar publications printed at intervals not exceeding three months. It also specifies that paper patterns sent with such magazines, printed in Australia, and printed order forms and addressed envelopes bound or fastened to the magazine are considered part of the magazine (Regulation 1). Another significant change is found under the "Printed Papers" heading (Regulation 1), which replaces the previous regulation with a comprehensive definition of printed papers. This new regulation includes a wide range of printed materials such as pamphlets, music sheets, circulars, proofs of printing, engravings, photographs, catalogues, and notices. It also includes paper patterns sent with fashion journals, printed in Australia (Regulation 1). The Regulations impose specific obligations and requirements on the parties involved. For instance, under the new definition of "magazine" (Regulation 1), all items considered part of a magazine must adhere to the same postal regulations as the magazine itself. This includes paper patterns, printed order forms, and addressed envelopes. Similarly, under the "Printed Papers" regulation (Regulation 1), all the specified printed materials must comply with the postal regulations applicable to printed papers. These materials must be properly addressed and stamped to ensure they meet the requirements for posting. The legislation also outlines potential consequences for breaches of the regulations. While the document does not explicitly state penalties, non-compliance with postal regulations typically results in fines, confiscation of the postal items, or other administrative actions under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1910. Given the nature of the amendments, failure to classify items correctly or ensure they meet the postal requirements could lead to the items being returned to the sender or confiscated by postal authorities. These actions serve as deterrents to ensure compliance with the postal regulations and the smooth operation of the postal service.