Sale of Meteorological Publications Regulations

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1912 No. 159, enacted under the Meteorology Act 1906, were introduced to regulate the sale and distribution of meteorological publications issued by the Meteorological Bureau. This legislative instrument was made by the Governor-General in Council, reflecting the need for structured governance in the distribution of vital meteorological data. The primary objective was to ensure that meteorological information, crucial for public safety, agricultural planning, and national development, was made accessible under regulated conditions, while also considering the need for international cooperation in weather-related research and services.

Scope and Application

The Meteorology Regulations 1912, established under the Meteorology Act 1906, pertain to the sale and distribution of meteorological publications issued by the Meteorological Bureau. These Regulations apply to the Commonwealth of Australia and set forth the pricing and conditions for the sale of various meteorological reports, charts, maps, and bulletins. They also outline how these publications may be distributed, including free or cost-price distribution to public institutions, government departments, corporations, and approved individuals or entities, provided that the publications are intended for public information, educational purposes, reciprocal services, or advertising the Commonwealth's resources. Furthermore, these publications may be distributed free of charge to official meteorological institutions globally. The Regulations include specific pricing for each publication, with some available at a nominal cost or free of charge, depending on the terms of distribution.

Key Provisions

The primary provisions of these Regulations (Regulations 1) pertain to the sale of meteorological publications issued by the Meteorological Bureau. For instance, the Bulletins (Nos. 1 to 8) and similar publications are priced at sixpence per copy with free postage (Regulation 1(1)). Subscriptions for publications such as the Australian Monthly Weather Report and Meteorological Abstract can be paid at sixpence per copy or five shillings per annum (Regulation 1(1)). Additionally, the Regulations provide that other similar publications and maps, not specifically listed, may be sold at sixpence per copy or one shilling per copy respectively (Regulation 1(3)). Furthermore, these publications can be distributed free or at cost to public institutions, government departments, corporations, and approved persons under specific conditions (Regulation 1(4)). The Regulations impose obligations on sellers and distributors of meteorological publications. These obligations include adhering to the specified pricing for various publications (Regulation 1(1), Regulation 1(3)) and ensuring that subscriptions are paid in advance (Regulation 1(2)). Additionally, when distributing these publications free of charge, the recipients must ensure that the publications are either posted for public information, used for educational purposes, provided in return for reciprocal services, or used for advertising the Commonwealth's resources (Regulation 1(4)(a)-(d)). Breach of these Regulations may result in certain consequences. Although the Regulations do not explicitly state specific penalties or consequences for non-compliance, it is implied that any unauthorized sale or distribution of the publications could lead to legal repercussions. Given the legislative nature of the document, violations might attract penalties under the Meteorology Act 1906 or other relevant laws, including fines or other sanctions deemed appropriate by the authorities.