Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1952

Overview

The Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1952 was enacted to amend the existing Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1947-1951. This legislation was introduced to address the need to adjust the rate of the stevedoring industry charge levied on employers for the benefit of waterside workers. The Act was passed by the Queen’s Most Excellent Majesty, the Senate, and the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Australia, signifying its authority under federal law. The policy objective was to revise the financial contribution from the stevedoring industry to better support the welfare of waterside workers, reflecting economic changes or increased operational costs in the industry. This amendment increased the charge rate from four pence to eleven pence, effective from the date of the Act's commencement.

Scope and Application

The Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1952 amends the Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1947-1951 to adjust the rate of charge applicable to the stevedoring industry. This Act applies to all employers engaged in the employment of waterside workers within the Commonwealth of Australia, including entities and industries involved in maritime cargo handling operations. The amendment pertains to the alteration of the charge rate from four pence to eleven pence per hour of employment, effective from the date of commencement of this Act, 28 October 1952. The geographic reach of the Act is national, impacting all relevant parties across the Commonwealth. The Act does not explicitly state exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, and its application is direct without further extension or restriction through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1952 (sections 1 to 4) amends the Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1947-1951, referred to as the Principal Act. The amended Act is then cited as the Stevedoring Industry Charge Act 1947-1952. The main change made by this Act is the alteration of the rate of charge for stevedoring services. Specifically, section 5 of the Principal Act is amended to change the rate from four pence to eleven pence. The obligations imposed by this Act on the parties involved in the stevedoring industry are primarily related to the adjustment of the charge for services rendered. Employers and stevedoring companies must now comply with the amended rate set forth in section 3 of this Act. This change ensures that the financial contributions from the stevedoring industry to relevant funds are updated in accordance with legislative requirements. Failure to comply with the amended rate of charge stipulated in this Act may result in legal consequences. The Principal Act, as amended, includes provisions for penalties and enforcement mechanisms to ensure adherence to the new charge rate. While specific penalties are not detailed in the provided text, it is implicit that non-compliance could lead to legal action, fines, or other penalties as prescribed under the Principal Act. The Act comes into operation on 28 October 1952, as specified in section 2. It applies to the employment of waterside workers after this date, ensuring that the new charge rate is enforced from the commencement date of the Act. This timing ensures that all parties have adequate notice to adjust their practices and comply with the new legislative requirements.