Science and Industry Research Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1967 No. 138 under the Science and Industry Research Act 1949-1966 were enacted to amend the Science and Industry Research Regulations. These amendments were made to update certain monetary values that were previously set in pounds and shillings to their equivalent values in dollars, reflecting the currency change in Australia. The Science and Industry Research Act 1949-1966 was initially enacted to address the need for coordinated and systematic scientific research to benefit Australian industry and commerce, with a view to improving productivity and fostering economic development. The objective of these regulations was to ensure the smooth transition to the decimal currency system by updating relevant financial provisions within the regulatory framework. The Regulations were made by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, and they came into effect on 16 March 1966.

Scope and Application

The Science and Industry Research Regulations 1967, made under the Science and Industry Research Act 1949-1966, primarily apply to the administration and financial aspects of the Science and Industry Research Organisation (SIRO), which was established to conduct research and development activities in various scientific and industrial fields. The regulations affect officers and members of State Committees involved in the organisation's activities, as well as the financial allowances and appointments within the organisation. The amendments adjust the travelling allowance for committee members and the remuneration for officers, reflecting the currency changes and cost adjustments necessary for the effective operation of SIRO. The regulations have a national reach, applying across the Commonwealth of Australia, and their provisions are designed to ensure the smooth functioning of research activities funded and overseen by the Commonwealth government. The changes are effective from 16 March 1966, and they are applicable to all relevant officers and members involved in SIRO’s operations from that date onwards.

Key Provisions

The key provisions of the Statutory Rules 1967 No. 138, made under the Science and Industry Research Act 1949-1966, involve amendments to the Science and Industry Research Regulations. Specifically, Regulation 5 (1) concerning the travelling allowance payable to members of a State Committee is adjusted from Eight pounds ten shillings to Twenty-one dollars. Regulation 6 (2) concerning the appointment and remuneration of officers is altered from Four thousand six hundred and fifty-five pounds to Nine thousand three hundred and ten dollars. Regulation 3 (3) specifies that the new allowance rate applies to travel on the business of the Organisation on or after 16 March 1966. These amendments impose specific financial obligations on the parties governed by the Act, including the requirement to pay updated allowances for travel and remuneration of officers. The new financial parameters set out in the regulations are to be adhered to for all relevant activities conducted on or after the specified date. The regulations do not explicitly state any offences, penalties, or consequences for non-compliance within the text provided. However, breaches of regulations made under the Science and Industry Research Act 1949-1966 could potentially lead to legal consequences under the overarching Act, including fines or other penalties as prescribed by law. The exact nature and extent of these penalties would be determined by the provisions of the primary Act and any relevant case law or judicial interpretations.