Speeches on zero fixed allowances (8)

I believe the answer is:

orations

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'speeches' is the definition.
(I know this)

'on zero fixed allowances' is the wordplay.
'on' says to put letters next to each other.
'zero' becomes 'O' (O resembles 0).
'fixed allowances' becomes 'rations' (I've seen this before. I am not sure about the 'fixed' bit.).
'o' put next to 'rations' is 'ORATIONS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for orations that I've seen before include "Public declamatory speeches" , "Formal speeches, often at funerals" , "Elaborate formal speeches" , "Addresses" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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