Wireless Telegraph Regulations 1913 (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1915, No. 139, titled "Regulation Under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905," was enacted to refine the regulatory framework for wireless telegraphy operations in Australia. This legislation was introduced by the Governor-General in Council, specifically to address the need for updated and stringent competency requirements for individuals operating ship stations with wireless telegraphy equipment. The policy objective is to ensure that operators of such stations are adequately trained and certified to maintain effective and safe communication at sea. The Act replaces an existing regulation with new provisions that require ship station operators to hold certificates of competency, issued only to natural-born or naturalized British subjects, with competency classes based on operational speed. This regulatory update underscores the importance of maintaining high standards in maritime communication technologies and ensuring the safety and efficiency of wireless telegraphy practices.

Scope and Application

The Wireless Telegraphy Regulations, 1915, made under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905, pertain to the operation of ship stations requiring a general licence. These regulations specify that such stations must be operated by individuals holding a certificate of competency issued by the Postmaster-General following an examination. This applies to both natural-born and naturalised British subjects, with certificates categorised into first and second classes based on the operators' respective speeds of 20 and 12 words per minute. The regulations also mandate fees for the examinations and for the issuance of certificates or their copies. A candidate who fails the examination is not eligible for re-examination until three months have elapsed since the initial attempt. These regulations have a nationwide application within the Commonwealth of Australia and are applicable to all ship stations needing a general licence, with no specific exclusions mentioned within the text.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of this amended Regulation, under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905, concern the operation of ship stations and the issuance of certificates of competency. Regulation 21(1) stipulates that any ship station operating under a general licence must be manned by individuals holding a certificate of competency, which is issued by the Postmaster-General following an examination, or by the Postmaster-General of the United Kingdom. These certificates are classified into two categories: first class for those capable of working at a speed of up to 20 words per minute, and second class for those capable of working at a speed of up to 12 words per minute, as outlined in Regulation 21(2). Furthermore, Regulation 21(3) details the fee structure, requiring a payment of five shillings per examination, with no charge for the certificate itself if the examination is passed, but a fee of two shillings and sixpence for any copies of the certificate. Additionally, any candidate failing the examination must wait three months before being re-examined. The obligations imposed by this Regulation include ensuring that all personnel operating ship stations under a general licence hold the appropriate certificates of competency. Natural-born or naturalized British subjects must undergo an examination administered by the Postmaster-General or the Postmaster-General of the United Kingdom to obtain these certificates. Furthermore, candidates must pay the stipulated fees for examinations and any additional copies of the certificate. The Regulation also mandates that candidates who fail the examination must wait for a minimum period of three months before being re-examined. In terms of penalties and consequences for non-compliance, the Regulation does not explicitly state specific offences or penalties within the provided text. However, the requirement to operate ship stations with competent personnel and hold valid certificates implies that failure to comply could result in the non-operation of the ship station or other administrative actions as deemed necessary by the authorities. The fee structure is in place to cover the costs of examinations and certification, with specific charges outlined for examinations, certificates, and re-examinations. The waiting period for re-examination after a failed attempt also serves as a deterrent to ensure candidates are adequately prepared.