Telephone Regulations 1913 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1920, No. 6, made under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916, address the need for improved security measures for telephone users against unauthorized use of their lines. Enacted by the Governor-General in Council, the regulations amend the Telephone Regulations of 1913 to introduce a control lock system for telephones. This system, which can be installed upon written application to the Deputy Postmaster-General, requires the insertion of a key to originate calls, thereby preventing unauthorized calls without interfering with incoming calls. The policy objective is to provide a practical solution for subscribers to safeguard their telephone services, with a charge of Two shillings and sixpence per annum for the installation and maintenance of the lock, along with a nominal fee for additional keys up to a maximum of five.

Scope and Application

The regulation, made under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901–1916, applies to subscribers to a Telephone Exchange and persons renting a telephone from the Department, specifically focusing on the installation and use of control locks on telephones. The regulation governs the conditions under which these locks can be installed, the costs involved, and the limitations on the number of keys provided. It is a Commonwealth regulation, thus its application extends across the entire nation, impacting all subscribers and renters of telephones within Australia. The regulation does not explicitly state exclusions or exemptions, though it is implied that it applies universally to all subscribers and renters under the Department's purview. The regulation can be further extended or modified through subordinate instruments, allowing for adjustments in charges or operational procedures as needed.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of this legislative instrument are found within Regulation 29 of the Amendment to the Telephone Regulations, 1913. Section (1) of Regulation 29 introduces a new sub-regulation that allows subscribers to a Telephone Exchange, or individuals renting a telephone from the Department, to apply for a control lock to be fitted on their telephone. This control lock requires a key to be inserted before any person can originate a call. It is important to note that while the lock prevents unauthorized use for making calls, it does not prevent the telephone from receiving calls or interfere with the ability to speak on the device. The regulation also stipulates that the charge for installing and maintaining this lock and providing one key is Two shillings and sixpence per annum, with additional keys available at the same rate, up to a maximum of five keys per telephone. The obligations imposed by this Act are primarily on subscribers and renters of telephones who wish to have a control lock installed on their devices. Upon application in writing to the Deputy Postmaster-General, the subscriber or renter must pay the prescribed fee for the installation and maintenance of the lock, as well as the cost of any keys. They are also limited to a maximum of five keys per telephone, which may be necessary to manage access to the telephone for multiple authorized users. There are no explicit provisions within the text of this legislative instrument that detail offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences for breach. However, the failure to comply with the terms of the application and payment for the control lock, as outlined in the regulation, could potentially lead to disputes or challenges regarding the unauthorized use of the telephone. It is advisable for subscribers and renters to adhere strictly to the terms and conditions set forth to avoid any such issues.