Universal Training Regulations (Amendment) (Provisional)

Overview

The Statutory Rules of 1914 No. 161, titled "Provisional Regulations under the Defence Act 1903-1912," was introduced to address an immediate need to amend the existing Universal Training Regulations for the Citizen Forces. Enacted by the Deputy of the Governor-General, A. L. Stanley, under the authority of the Federal Executive Council and in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, these Provisional Regulations were designed to come into operation with urgency from 1 August 1914. The policy objective was to make the regulation effective immediately, reflecting the pressing requirements of the time. Specifically, Regulation 161 was amended to extend the allowance to soldiers who were the sole support of a widowed mother or a mother entirely dependent upon their earnings, thereby broadening the eligibility criteria and providing necessary support to more individuals.

Scope and Application

The Provisional Regulations under the Defence Act 1903-1912, specifically Regulation 161, applies to members of the citizen forces within the Commonwealth of Australia. This regulation concerns the amendment of allowances for soldiers, particularly those who are the sole support of a widowed mother or a mother who is entirely dependent upon their earnings. This legislation extends to all citizens enlisted in the defence forces across the states and territories of Australia, establishing a national standard for the provision of allowances. The regulation is an urgent measure, coming into immediate effect from 1 August 1914, and is designed to address the financial needs of soldiers who support dependent family members. The regulation does not explicitly state any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, but it is implied that it applies to those meeting the criteria of sole support for a dependent mother. The regulation may also be extended or modified through subsequent legislative instruments to adapt to changing circumstances or needs.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these Provisional Regulations under the Defence Act 1903-1912 concern the amendment of Regulation 161, which deals with allowances for soldiers who are the sole support of certain dependents (Reg. 161). Specifically, the amendment changes the criteria for receiving an allowance from supporting a widowed mother to supporting either a widowed mother or a mother who is entirely dependent upon the soldier's earnings. This modification expands the eligibility for the allowance to include more categories of dependent mothers. These Regulations impose specific obligations on the parties involved, notably the soldier and the relevant Defence authorities. The soldier must provide evidence that they are the sole support of a widowed or entirely dependent mother to qualify for the allowance. The Defence authorities are obligated to review and verify the soldier’s claim and ensure the correct allowance is paid in accordance with the amended Regulation 161. The Regulations also require that any changes to the criteria for allowances be communicated clearly and promptly to all affected soldiers and Defence personnel. Failure to comply with these Regulations can result in various consequences. While the specific offences and penalties are not detailed in the text, breaches of Defence regulations can generally lead to disciplinary actions against soldiers, administrative penalties, or legal consequences for Defence authorities found to be in non-compliance. For instance, soldiers might face disciplinary proceedings if they provide false information to obtain allowances, and Defence authorities could face administrative sanctions if they fail to correctly implement the Regulations. The exact nature and severity of these consequences would depend on the specific breach and the internal Defence policies in place.