Telephone Regulations (Amendment) (Provisional)

Overview

The Statutory Rules of 1914, No. 145, are Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1913, introduced by the Governor-General in Council to address the urgent need for amendments to the existing telephone regulations. Enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, these provisional regulations aimed to update the telephone service provisions to better accommodate technological advancements and operational efficiencies. The policy objective behind these amendments was to ensure that the regulatory framework remained relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the public and the postal and telegraph services. These regulations were brought into immediate operation, reflecting the pressing nature of the changes they sought to implement.

Scope and Application

The Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1913, which are codified in Statutory Rules 1914, No. 145, apply to the operation and regulation of telephone services across the Commonwealth of Australia. These regulations specifically address amendments to rental charges for subscribers using common battery adjustable telephone bracket sets, as well as the terms under which telephoning telegrams are provided, particularly concerning the distance from the Chief District Telegraph Office. The amendments introduced by these regulations primarily affect telephone service providers and subscribers who fall under the jurisdiction of these specific regulations. The geographic reach of these regulations is nationwide, given the overarching authority of the Commonwealth in regulating telecommunications. The regulations also include provisions that exempt certain services provided in locations served by Allowance Post Offices from additional charges, provided no extra expense is incurred by the Department.

Key Provisions

The Provisional Regulations under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1913, specifically amending Regulations 28 and 36, introduce new provisions regarding the rental for telephone services. Regulation 28 now stipulates that if a subscriber is supplied with a common battery adjustable telephone bracket set, where the telephone is either permanently affixed to the bracket or the bracket supports an ordinary common battery table telephone, the rental will be that for an ordinary common battery table telephone increased by 6 shillings. This change ensures clarity and consistency in billing for subscribers with this type of telephone setup. Regulation 36 has been repealed and replaced to alter the terms for providing telegraph services. Now, subscribers residing beyond 1 mile radially from the Chief District Telegraph Office will receive the service provided under Regulation 35 free of charge. Conversely, subscribers within 1 mile radially from the Chief District Telegraph Office will be charged for the service as outlined in Regulation 37 if the service is performed between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Outside these hours, the service will be provided free. These regulations impose specific obligations on both the service provider and the subscribers. The service provider must ensure that subscribers are correctly classified and billed according to the new provisions outlined in Regulation 28. For instance, subscribers with a common battery adjustable telephone bracket set must be charged an increased rental as specified. Additionally, the service provider must differentiate between subscribers located within and beyond 1 mile radially from the Chief District Telegraph Office and apply the appropriate charges or free services accordingly. Subscribers, on the other hand, must ensure they are aware of their location relative to the Chief District Telegraph Office and understand the timing of when they will be charged for telegraph services. Failure to comply with these regulations may lead to legal consequences. While the specific offences and penalties are not detailed within the text, it is understood that breaches of statutory provisions under the Post and Telegraph Act 1901-1913 could result in civil or criminal liabilities. Typically, such breaches might lead to fines or other penalties as prescribed by the relevant laws. The exact penalties would depend on the severity and intent of the breach, as well as any applicable statutes that govern such violations.