Telephone Regulations 1913 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1919 No. 210, enacted by the Governor-General in Council, is an amendment to the existing Telephone Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916. This amendment aims to update and refine the regulatory framework for telephone services in Australia, addressing issues related to the provision and rental of telephone equipment, including the introduction of new items such as the Common Battery hand microtelephone. The objective of these amendments is to ensure that the regulatory framework remains current with technological advancements and service offerings in the telecommunications sector. These regulations, published and authorised by the Government Printer for the State of Victoria, reflect the evolving needs of the telecommunications industry and aim to provide clarity and guidance on the associated fees and charges for telephone services.

Scope and Application

The amended Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916 applies to subscribers of telephone services within the Commonwealth of Australia, specifically addressing the rental charges for telephone equipment. This regulation pertains to the provision of specific telephone equipment such as the Common Battery hand microtelephone, setting its rental at 15 shillings and 0 pence. Furthermore, it addresses the additional charge for subscribers who are provided with a second receiver for a wall or table telephone, stipulating an increment of 2 shillings and 6 pence to the rental. The regulation affects the pricing structure and financial obligations of individuals and entities subscribing to these services, thereby impacting the telecommunications industry. This legislative instrument is effective across the Commonwealth and is subject to the overarching provisions of the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916, extending its applicability through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The amended Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916, particularly in Regulation 28, introduces specific charges for telephone equipment and services. Regulation 28 now includes a charge for a Common Battery hand microtelephone, which is set at 15 shillings (Regulation 28). Additionally, if a subscriber has a second receiver installed for either a wall or table telephone, the rental fee will increase by 2 shillings and 6 pence (Regulation 28). These provisions ensure that users are charged appropriately based on the equipment they use and the number of receivers they have installed. The Act imposes clear obligations on subscribers to pay the specified charges for any additional telephone equipment or services they utilise. For example, subscribers who opt for a Common Battery hand microtelephone must pay the 15 shillings charge, while those who install a second receiver must pay the additional 2 shillings and 6 pence. These obligations are intended to ensure that the Post and Telegraph service is fairly compensated for the provision of additional equipment and services, maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the telecommunications infrastructure. Failure to comply with the charges outlined in the amended Regulation could potentially result in legal consequences. Although specific penalties are not detailed within the text of the statutory rules, breaches of similar regulations typically lead to fines or other civil penalties under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916. The exact penalties would depend on the particular provisions of the Act and any relevant case law. It is important for subscribers to adhere to the charges to avoid any potential legal repercussions.