Special Annuity Act 1923

Overview

The Special Annuity Act 1923 was enacted to address the specific need of providing financial support to the widow of the late Honourable Frank Gwynne Tudor. This Act was passed to ensure that the widow received a steady income, reflecting the importance of recognising and compensating the sacrifices made by the families of public servants. Enacted by the King’s Most Excellent Majesty, the Senate, and the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Australia, the policy objective of this Act is clearly stated as the appropriation of funds to support the widow, ensuring her financial stability following the loss of her husband who served the nation. The Act stipulates that the annuity will be paid at a rate of one hundred and fifty-six pounds per annum, ceasing only if the widow remarries. This legislation underscores the Commonwealth’s commitment to supporting the dependents of public servants, providing a legislative framework to ensure that those who have made significant contributions to the nation are not left without care in times of personal loss. By appropriating funds from the Consolidated Revenue, the Act demonstrates a direct and deliberate effort to address the unique circumstances of the widow, reflecting both respect and responsibility towards the families of those who have served.

Scope and Application

The Special Annuity Act 1923 applies specifically to the widow of the late Honourable Frank Gwynne Tudor, ensuring her receipt of a specified annuity from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Commonwealth of Australia. This Act, which was assented to on the first of September 1923, is a legislative measure tailored to address the financial welfare of a particular individual’s widow. The annuity payment is conditional on the widow not remarrying, as stated in the Act, thereby ceasing the annuity upon her remarriage. The Act operates under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia, indicating its national reach, and does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds beyond the condition of remarriage. Subordinate instruments do not extend or restrict the application of this Act, as it is a self-contained legislation aimed at fulfilling a specific purpose.

Key Provisions

The Special Annuity Act 1923 (sections 1 and 2) establishes the payment of an annuity to the widow of the late the Honorable Frank Gwynne Tudor. This annuity is set at one hundred and fifty-six pounds per annum and is to be sourced from the Consolidated Revenue Fund. The Act stipulates that this annuity is payable subject to the terms and conditions outlined within the Act itself. The Act imposes certain obligations on the relevant parties. Firstly, it mandates the payment of the annuity from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, ensuring that the widow of the late Honorable Frank Gwynne Tudor receives her entitlement. Moreover, it specifies that the annuity will cease to be payable if the widow remarries, thereby establishing a condition under which the annuity is terminated. In terms of consequences for non-compliance, the Act does not explicitly outline offences, penalties, or specific civil or criminal consequences for breach of its provisions. However, the failure to adhere to the conditions set forth, particularly the cessation of annuity payment upon remarriage, may lead to legal scrutiny or disputes over the rightful entitlement to the annuity. The Act does not mention any maximum penalties for breaches, leaving the interpretation and enforcement to the courts and relevant authorities.