Supply (Works and Services) Act (No. 1) 1949-50

Supply (Works and Services) Act (No. 1) 1949–50

This is a government appropriation act (a law that formally authorises the government to spend public money). Specifically, it unlocks funds for capital works and infrastructure projects — things like new buildings, construction, and major physical assets — rather than everyday running costs like wages or stationery.

What does it do?

• It authorises the Treasurer to draw £13,694,000 (about thirteen and a half million pounds) from the Consolidated Revenue Fund (Australia's central government bank account, into which taxes and other revenue flow)
• The money is earmarked for "additions, new works and other services involving capital expenditure" — in plain terms, building and infrastructure spending
• It grants that money for the financial year ending 30 June 1950, and any unspent money cannot be used after that date
• Spending is only lawful when backed by a formal warrant (a written authorisation) signed by the Governor-General

Who does it affect?

The money is divided across three categories:

• 🏛️ Government Departments (Part I — £9,128,000): Funds spread across roughly 25 departments including Works & Housing, Civil Aviation, Immigration, Defence Services, and others. The biggest recipients are the Department of Works and Housing (£3.16M) and Defence Services (£1.96M), reflecting post-war reconstruction and immigration infrastructure priorities.