Supplementary Appropriation (Works and Buildings) Act 1931-32

Overview

The Supplementary Appropriation (Works and Buildings) Act 1931-1932 was enacted to address a financial shortfall identified in the allocation for infrastructure projects during the 1931-1932 fiscal year. The Act, assented to on 24th July 1933, was introduced by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia and provides an additional appropriation of £209,000 from the Consolidated Revenue Fund to cover expenses related to additions, new works, and buildings. The primary policy objective of this Act is to ensure that the necessary funding is available to complete and initiate essential infrastructure projects that were planned for the fiscal year but fell short of their financial requirements due to the initial appropriation. This Act reflects the legislative body's commitment to fulfilling its mandate for public infrastructure development by providing the additional funds needed to meet the year's objectives, thus supporting economic activity and public service delivery during a period of significant economic challenge.

Scope and Application

The Supplementary Appropriation (Works and Buildings) Act 1931-1932 applies to the Commonwealth of Australia, specifically targeting the appropriation of funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund for the fiscal year ending June 1932. This Act ensures that an additional sum of £209,000 is allocated for designated purposes, including additions, new works, and buildings. The legislation is enacted under the authority of the King's Most Excellent Majesty, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, reflecting its status as a Commonwealth Act. The application of this Act is confined to the financial transactions and appropriations within the federal government's jurisdiction, ensuring that the allocated funds are directed towards the specified infrastructure and construction needs. The Act does not explicitly state any exclusions or exemptions, implying that the appropriated funds are to be used strictly within the outlined parameters unless otherwise specified by subordinate legislation.

Key Provisions

The Supplementary Appropriation (Works and Buildings) Act 1931-1932 (section 2) provides for the appropriation of £209,000 from the Consolidated Revenue Fund for the service of the year ending 30 June 1932. This appropriation is designated for the purposes of additions, new works, buildings, and other related activities. The Act specifies that this sum is intended to cover specific expenditures that were not accounted for in the original budget for that financial year. The primary purpose of this Act is to facilitate additional funding to ensure that critical infrastructure projects and works can proceed as planned. The Act imposes several obligations on the relevant government departments and entities responsible for the allocation and expenditure of the appropriated funds. These entities must ensure that the funds are used strictly for the purposes outlined in the Act, which are additions, new works, and buildings. They are required to provide detailed accounts and justifications for any expenditures made under this appropriation, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. Additionally, these departments must adhere to any existing budgetary guidelines and financial regulations that govern the expenditure of public funds. Breaches of the requirements set out in the Supplementary Appropriation (Works and Buildings) Act 1931-1932 can result in both civil and criminal consequences. For instance, misuse of the appropriated funds, such as using them for purposes other than those specified in the Act, could lead to disciplinary action against the responsible officials. Furthermore, if the misuse is found to be intentional or negligent, it could result in criminal charges. The maximum penalties for such offences are not explicitly stated in the Act but could include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the breach and the applicable criminal law. Additionally, civil actions for damages may be pursued by affected parties if the misuse of funds results in financial loss or harm.