Telephone Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1922, No. 28, enacted by the Governor-General on behalf of the Commonwealth of Australia, represents an amendment to the Telephone Regulations 1913 under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916. This legislative instrument was designed to address the need for a more structured and equitable fee structure for additional telephone connections, ensuring that the regulatory framework adequately reflects the evolving demands of communication services. The amendment specifically modifies Regulation 79 to establish a clear fee of One shilling per annum for each additional point connected to the telephone line, thereby providing a transparent and consistent approach to charging for such services. This regulation was enacted with the objective of maintaining fair and efficient postal and telegraphic services, enhancing the operational clarity and financial management of the telecommunication sector in Australia.

Scope and Application

The amended Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916, as published in Statutory Rules 1922, No. 28, modifies existing telephone regulations to adjust the fee structure for additional points connected to telephone lines. This amendment applies to any person or entity making use of the Commonwealth's telephone services by connecting additional points to their telephone lines. The scope of this legislative instrument is specific to the Commonwealth jurisdiction, affecting those operating within the federal postal and telegraph services. The amendment restricts its application to those who are utilising telephone services and mandates an additional fee of one shilling per annum for each additional point connected to a telephone line, effectively extending the financial obligations of users with multiple connections. There are no explicit exclusions or exemptions stated within this particular legislative instrument, and its application is limited to the specified amendment of Regulation 79, without broader jurisdictional implications beyond the Commonwealth's postal and telegraph services.

Key Provisions

The amended Regulation under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1916, particularly Regulation 79, introduces a new fee structure for telephone services. Regulation 79 (section 1) now stipulates that a fee of One shilling per annum must be charged for each additional point connected to the telephone line. This amendment replaces the previous wording that followed the phrase "connexions to the line." This change ensures that a fee is applied for each additional connection, providing a clearer financial structure for the services provided. Under this amendment, parties or entities governed by the Post and Telegraph Act are obligated to adhere to the new fee structure outlined in Regulation 79. This includes service providers who must charge the specified fee for each additional point connected to a telephone line. These entities must ensure that their billing practices comply with the statutory requirements, maintaining transparency and consistency in their service charges. Failure to comply with the new fee structure as outlined in the amended Regulation could potentially result in legal consequences. While the specific offences, penalties, or consequences for breach are not explicitly detailed in the text provided, breaches of statutory regulations typically carry administrative, civil, or criminal penalties. In the context of telecommunications, non-compliance could lead to regulatory sanctions, fines, or other enforcement actions by the relevant authorities. It is important for parties to understand and implement the new fee structure to avoid any potential legal repercussions.