Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1959

Overview

The Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1959 was enacted to amend the Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1958, specifically increasing the financial assistance provided to the state for northern development projects. This legislation was introduced by the Commonwealth of Australia Parliament and aims to address the need for increased funding to support infrastructure and developmental initiatives in the northern regions of Western Australia. The policy objective behind the Act is to facilitate economic growth and infrastructure development in the northern part of the state by providing additional financial resources. The Act, which received Royal Assent on 22nd May 1959, became effective immediately upon enactment. It amends the previously established grant by doubling the amount from two million five hundred thousand pounds to five million pounds, thereby ensuring that the state has sufficient funds to pursue its developmental goals in the designated region. This legislative amendment underscores the federal government's commitment to supporting regional development and infrastructure improvements in Western Australia.

Scope and Application

The Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1959 applies to the State of Western Australia and pertains specifically to the allocation of financial assistance for northern development projects. This Act amends the earlier Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1958, adjusting the amount of financial aid from two million five hundred thousand pounds to five million pounds. The Act is applicable to the State government of Western Australia and any entities involved in the development projects intended to benefit from this funding. Geographically, the application of this Act is limited to Western Australia, and there are no specified exclusions or exemptions within the text provided. The Act’s scope is further defined by any subordinate instruments that may extend or restrict its application, though such details are not provided in the excerpt. The Act came into operation on the day it received Royal Assent, ensuring immediate effect upon its passage.

Key Provisions

The Western Australia Grant (Northern Development) Act 1959 amends the 1958 Act to increase the financial assistance granted to Western Australia for northern development. Specifically, Section 3 of the 1959 Act modifies Section 5(1) of the 1958 Act by increasing the monetary amount from Two million five hundred thousand pounds to Five million pounds. This adjustment ensures that the financial support provided under the Act is increased to better support the intended developmental goals in the northern regions of Western Australia. Under this Act, the obligations of the relevant parties and entities primarily involve the proper use and accounting of the financial assistance granted. The State of Western Australia must ensure that the funds are utilised in accordance with the purposes outlined in the original 1958 Act, which are aimed at fostering development in the northern areas of the state. This includes adhering to any guidelines, reporting requirements, and compliance measures stipulated by the Commonwealth to oversee the effective utilisation of the funds. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Act can result in various consequences, including civil and criminal penalties. While the specific penalties are not detailed in the provided text, under Australian law, breaches of legislation can typically lead to fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity and nature of the offence. The exact penalties would be determined by the courts in the event of a breach, and could potentially include significant financial penalties and imprisonment terms as prescribed by the relevant laws governing the Act. It is important for the parties involved to understand and adhere to the provisions of this Act to avoid any legal repercussions. The amendment to the original Act highlights the importance of financial support for regional development and the need for stringent oversight to ensure that the funds are used effectively and as intended.