Trade Commissioners Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Trade Commissioners Regulations 1981 (Amendment) were enacted under the Trade Commissioners Act 1933 to update the salary structures for Trade Commissioners and Assistant Trade Commissioners in line with economic and inflationary changes over time. Made by the Governor-General acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, these regulations aim to ensure that the remuneration of Trade Commissioners reflects current market conditions and the responsibilities associated with their roles. The policy objective behind this amendment is to maintain the attractiveness of these positions to qualified candidates while ensuring the salaries are fair and competitive within the public service framework. The regulations were designed to apply to periods commencing after specific dates in 1980 and 1981, with transitional provisions to adjust salaries incrementally over the mentioned periods.

Scope and Application

The Trade Commissioners Regulations, as amended by Statutory Rules 1981 No. 2951, apply to Trade Commissioners and Assistant Trade Commissioners specified in the regulations. These individuals are subject to the rules concerning their annual salaries, which vary according to their designation and grade, as outlined in the amended regulations. The application of these regulations commenced on 22 May 1980, with different salary brackets applicable to different periods as detailed in the schedule. These amended regulations are applicable on a national level, as they are made under the Trade Commissioners Act 1933, which is a Commonwealth Act. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within the text of these regulations, and they are effective for periods specified, indicating that they might be further extended or modified through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The Trade Commissioners Regulations 1981 (Amendment) modify the Trade Commissioners Regulations 1958 by adjusting the annual salary or range of annual salary for various grades of Trade Commissioners and Assistant Trade Commissioners. Specifically, Regulation 5a now lists the updated salary ranges (Regulation 1). These new salary provisions apply to any period starting after 21 May 1980, with transitional provisions for the periods between 22 May 1980 and 6 May 1981 (Regulation 2(1) and (2)). The amended salary schedules are detailed in the Schedule of the Regulations, showing different salary brackets for each grade over the specified periods (Schedule). These Regulations impose obligations on the Commonwealth to pay Trade Commissioners and Assistant Trade Commissioners the salaries specified in the amended regulations. The Trade Commissioners themselves are expected to adhere to their designated roles and responsibilities within the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), ensuring their activities align with the objectives of the Trade Commissioners Act 1933. Austrade is also responsible for ensuring compliance with these salary provisions, maintaining accurate records, and reporting as necessary to the relevant authorities. Failure to comply with the provisions of these Regulations may lead to legal consequences. While the Regulations themselves do not explicitly state penalties for non-compliance, breaches of related provisions under the Trade Commissioners Act 1933 or other relevant legislation may incur penalties. These could include fines, administrative sanctions, or other legal actions, depending on the nature and severity of the breach. It is essential for all parties involved to adhere to the stipulated salary provisions to avoid any potential repercussions.