Sale of Meteorological Publications Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1911, No. 164, represents a legislative instrument made under the Meteorology Act 1906, aiming to establish regulations for the sale of meteorological publications. Enacted by the Governor-General, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, these regulations were introduced to provide a structured framework for the dissemination of meteorological data and information. The policy objective behind this regulation is to ensure that the public has access to essential meteorological publications, while also providing a means for the Bureau of Meteorology to manage and control the distribution of its materials. This regulatory amendment, specifically the repeal and substitution of the last paragraph of Regulation No. 1 of the Regulations relating to the sale of Meteorological Publications, seeks to streamline the pricing and sales processes for publications and maps not specifically listed in prior pricing schedules. By setting a standard price of Sixpence per copy for bulletins and pamphlets, and One shilling per copy for maps, the regulation seeks to create uniformity and transparency in the pricing structure for these materials. This approach ensures that the dissemination of meteorological information remains accessible and affordable, while also providing a financial framework for the Bureau of Meteorology's operations.

Scope and Application

The Statutory Rules 1911, No. 164, made under the Meteorology Act 1906, regulates the sale of meteorological publications and maps, with a focus on setting specific prices for items not previously detailed. This regulation applies to the sale of meteorological publications and maps issued by the Meteorological Bureau. The regulation pertains to the Commonwealth of Australia and is in effect immediately upon promulgation. While the primary focus is on setting prices for certain meteorological items, it does not extend to any exclusions or exemptions, nor does it mention any thresholds that might affect its applicability. The regulation can be further extended or detailed through subordinate instruments, which may provide additional specifics or amendments regarding the sale and pricing of meteorological materials. This regulatory framework ensures a standardised approach to the sale of these essential publications and maps, facilitating their accessibility and use across the nation.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of this legislation, as encapsulated in Regulation No. 1 under the Meteorology Act 1906, involve amendments to the pricing structure for the sale of meteorological publications (Regulation No. 1, s. 1). Specifically, the regulation modifies the pricing of meteorological bulletins, pamphlets, and maps. Bulletins and pamphlets not specifically priced in a prior list can be sold at a rate of sixpence per copy, while other similar maps are to be sold at one shilling per copy (Regulation No. 1, s. 1). The regulation imposes certain obligations and requirements on parties involved in the sale of these publications. Sellers must adhere to the stipulated prices for the publications as set forth in the regulation (Regulation No. 1, s. 1). This ensures a uniform pricing structure and transparency for consumers purchasing meteorological materials. Furthermore, there are no explicit provisions detailing offences, penalties, or consequences for breach within the regulation itself. However, given the context of statutory regulations under the Meteorology Act 1906, non-compliance with these pricing directives could potentially be construed as a breach of the Act, which may attract civil or administrative penalties as prescribed under the broader legislative framework. While the specific penalties are not outlined in this regulation, it is reasonable to infer that any significant deviation from the prescribed pricing could lead to enforcement actions under the overarching Act.