War Financial Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1919, No. 65, issued under the Defence Act 1903–1918, were enacted to address financial and administrative requirements during the period of World War I. This legislative instrument was made by the Governor-General in Council, under the authority delegated by the Commonwealth Parliament. The principal objective of these regulations was to ensure the efficient financial management and operational logistics of the Australian Imperial Force, particularly in relation to the Home Service members. The regulations specifically aimed to amend the War Financial Regulations to reflect the operational realities and financial exigencies of the war, including adjustments to allowances and the timing of certain financial provisions to better align with the onset of hostilities.

Scope and Application

The Statutory Rules 1919, No. 65 under the Defence Act 1903–1918 pertains specifically to the amendment of War Financial Regulations. The regulations apply to members of the Australian Imperial Force Home Service who are employed at District Head-Quarters and not rationed. The scope of the Act is limited to financial provisions and allowances for such military personnel, with the regulation aiming to provide a daily allowance of 6d. per diem to these individuals. These regulations extend nationally as they are enacted under the Commonwealth authority. The amendments made by this statutory rule specifically target the financial arrangements for military personnel during the period of their service, and the regulations are designed to take effect retroactively, with provisions deemed to have commenced from 15th December, 1914. Any exclusions or exemptions are not explicitly stated within the text, and any further application or restriction of these regulations may be addressed through subordinate instruments issued under the Defence Act.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these Regulations under the Defence Act 1903–1918 involve amendments to the War Financial Regulations, which govern financial matters related to the war effort. Specifically, Regulation 13a is amended (paragraph 1) to clarify that its provisions, as initially established by Statutory Rules 1917, No. 268, are deemed to have come into operation from 15 December 1914. Furthermore, a new regulation, 57c (paragraph 2), is inserted after Regulation 57b. This new regulation allows for a daily allowance of six pence (6d.) to be paid to members of the Australian Imperial Force Home Service who are employed at District Head-Quarters and are not provided with rations. These Regulations impose obligations on the parties involved, primarily focusing on financial allowances for members of the Australian Imperial Force Home Service. The amendments ensure that the financial provisions are applied correctly and retroactively from the specified date, 15 December 1914. Additionally, the insertion of Regulation 57c requires that a daily allowance be provided to eligible members, enhancing their financial support during service. The Regulations do not explicitly state any offences, penalties, or consequences for breach within the provided text. However, non-compliance with financial regulations could potentially lead to legal consequences under the Defence Act 1903–1918 or other relevant laws. Typically, breaches of statutory regulations might result in civil or criminal penalties, depending on the severity and nature of the breach, though the specific penalties are not detailed in the provided excerpt.