METEOROLOGY

No. 3 of 1906.

An Act relating to Meteorological Observations.

[Assented to 28th August, 1906.]

BE it enacted by the King’s Most Excellent Majesty, the Senate, and the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Australia, as follows:—

Short title.

1. This Act may be cited as the Meteorology Act 1906.

Definitions.

2. In this Act, unless the contrary intention appears—

“Observatory” means an observatory for the purpose of meteorological observations.

Establishment of observatories and appointment of Meteorologist.

3. The Governor-General may—

(a) establish observatories; and

(b) appoint an officer called the Commonwealth Meteorologist, and such other officers as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act.

Duties of Meteorologist.

4. The Commonwealth Meteorologist may, subject to the regulations and to the directions of the Minister, be charged with any of the following duties:—

(a) the taking and recording of meteorological observations;

(b) the forecasting of weather;

(c) the issue of storm-warnings;

(d) the display of weather and flood signals;

(e) the display of frost and cold-wave signals;

(f) the distribution of meteorological information; and

(g) such other duties as are prescribed to give effect to the provisions of this Act.

Arrangements with State Governments.

5. The Governor-General may enter into an arrangement with the Governor of any State in respect of all or any of the following matters:—

(a) The transfer to the Commonwealth, on such terms as are agreed upon, of any observatory and the instruments, books, registers, records, and documents used or kept in connexion therewith;

(b) The taking and recording of meteorological observations by State officers;

(c) The interchange of meteorological information between the Commonwealth and State authorities; and

(d) Any matters incidental to any of the matters above specified or desirable or convenient to be arranged or provided for for the purpose of efficiently and economically carrying out this Act.

Arrangements with Governments of other countries.

6. The Governor-General may enter into any arrangement with the Governments of other countries or any of them for the interchange of meteorological information and any matter incidental thereto between such Governments and the Commonwealth.

Regulations.

7. The Governor-General may make regulations prescribing all matters necessary or desirable to be prescribed for carrying out or giving effect to this Act.