Carlo Di Falco to vote again gun law changes as firearm stakeholders unite

Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Carlo Di Falco has indicated he will vote against proposed gun law reforms.

It comes as firearms stakeholder groups unite against the currently proposed legislation tabled in the Tasmanian Parliament.

The changes include reclassifying straight-pull and button/lever release (self-ejecting) centre-fire and shotgun firearms to the more restrictive Category C licence; introducing Australian citizenship as a requirement for firearm ownership, with appropriate carve-outs; and clarifying the process for possessing, displaying, and storing antique firearms, while introducing licensing and permit-to-acquire requirements.

The major change from the draft legislation is the addition of grandfathering provisions for existing licensed firearm owners who would otherwise be affected by citizenship and reclassification requirements.

During the 2024 state election, the Liberals said antique firearm owners would not need a licence to keep it.

However, the Bill tabled in Parliament states that antique firearm owners require a permit.

The permit process includes eligibility screening and the Commissioner's discretion to refuse, cancel and review rights.

Mr Di Falco said he was concerned about the legislation in its current form.

“We all support measures that genuinely target criminals, illegal firearms and firearms trafficking,” he said.

“Where I draw the line is imposing additional restrictions on licensed, law-abiding firearm owners without being able to demonstrate the public safety outcome.”

Sporting Shooters Association state and national president Andrew Judd said his members were concerned with proposals to cap the number of firearms one can own, with Labor indicating it will move an amendment to the bill to include caps.

“Different firearms are used for different disciplines and competitions.

“Simply counting the number of firearms someone owns tells you very little about the risk that person presents.

“We are also concerned that restrictions around lending could make it harder for clubs to introduce new people to the sport using club firearms. 

“We want Parliament to focus on demonstrated risk and illegal firearm use rather than placing further restrictions on people who have already gone through the licensing system and continue to comply with the law.”

Southern Range Sports owner David Cowle said firearm caps would devastate his business.

"The community are deeply worried, and I fear for the longevity of firearm dealers.” 

“Reclassification and other changes can have significant consequences for stock that businesses have purchased legally, as well as for customers who have purchased firearms legally and complied with every requirement placed upon them. 

“Small businesses need certainty.

“If Parliament is going to change the rules, it needs to properly understand the commercial and practical consequences before those changes take effect.”