ACT Plans to Overhaul ‘Outdated’ Gun Laws, Shooters Express Anxiety

Concerns are rising among professional and recreational shooters in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) following the government’s announcement to reform its “outdated” gun laws. The ACT administration is currently reviewing its firearms legislation in response to a recent terror attack and the development of a national gun buyback scheme.

Current Gun Ownership in the ACT

There are over 22,000 registered firearms within the ACT, held by approximately 7,000 licensed individuals. Typically, shooters in this region own an average of three firearms. While there is technically no total limit on ownership, various categories of firearms come with specific numerical restrictions.

Potential Changes and Community Concerns

• The government may set a cap on the number of guns an individual can possess.
• Shane Stroud, president of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia ACT, voiced anxiety over these changes.
• There are fears that restrictions might force shooters to choose between competitive sports and professional needs.

Stroud emphasized the need for comprehensive community consultation before any modifications are made. He stated that many shooters also rely on firearms for their livelihood, whether through hunting or competitive shooting.

Legislation Necessitates Modernization

ACT Police Minister Marisa Paterson acknowledged the necessity of updating the region’s gun laws to align with advancements in firearm technology. Recent developments, such as 3D printed firearms, highlight the urgency for reform.

• Current plans include a move toward a digital National Firearms Register.
• Paterson noted that they aim to synchronize the ACT’s laws closely with those of New South Wales, which caps ownership at four firearms.
• Reforms would also address the licensing and categorization of firearms.

Measures to Ensure Public Safety

The ACT government promotes updates to ensure public safety while recognizing the community’s need for legal firearms ownership. Stroud expressed that gun owners share a vested interest in public safety and aim to maintain the integrity of their sport.

Future Directions for Gun Laws in the ACT

The ACT administration is set to gather community feedback in the upcoming months regarding potential legislation changes. Chief Minister Andrew Barr highlighted the importance of negotiating the financial aspects of a national gun buyback scheme with the federal government.

While discussing the reforms, Barr also mentioned bolstering the ACT’s anti-vilification laws, possibly introducing criminal penalties for extreme hate speech. He stressed the need for a well-considered approach that prioritizes community safety while respecting individual freedoms.

Feedback and Ongoing Discussions

• The review of anti-vilification laws will not be rushed.
• Community input will be vital in shaping future legislation.
• Ongoing dialogues with citizens will guide the decisions made by lawmakers.

As the ACT government deliberates on its outdated gun laws, the voices of the community, especially those directly impacted, remain crucial in shaping the future of firearm regulations in the region.