The current guidelines for the approval of semi-official telephones have been revised to have regard to the changes which have taken place in the management practices of various agencies over recent years.

I have now approved of the Chief Executive Officers of Departments and Organisations at their discretion, being able to delegate the authority to approve the provision of semi-official telephones to other senior officers of the agency concerned. However, the basis of providing such a facility will not change and may only be granted in instances where officers are required to:

(a) give decisions, supply information or provide emergent services and/or

(b) be available for reasons of safety or security for contact by the public, outside normal office hours.

The telephone should be located in the officer's principal place of residence and its telephone number communicated to all persons entitled to have out of hours contact with the officer concerned.

Unless superior entitlements form part of an industrial award or an agreement negotiated with the Minister, the extent of the subsidy will be limited to the following:

(1) The fee charged upon connection of an approved semi-official telephone service.

(2) The full annual base rental charged for the service.

(3) The full cost of all official STD and ISD calls as detailed on the telephone bill.

(4) A percentage of the cost of local calls nominated as official by the officer and approved by the Department Head or delegate.

I would appreciate your action in bringing these arrangements to the attention of all departments and authorities coming within your administration.

Acting Premier.

Branch: Projects and Management Services Division
Contact: Craig White
Telephone No.: 228 5370
Date: 6 June, 1994