Bondi tragedy puts spotlight on gun laws

• Illegal firearms and other weapons seized recently during a search of a property in the Huon Valley. Reducing the number of illicit firearms in the community is a priority for Tasmania Police.

Australia’s strict gun laws could be further tightened with the prime minister proposing limits on the number of firearms that can be licensed per person.

In the wake of yesterday’s deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach, Anthony Albanese said the government was “prepared to take whatever action is necessary” and that he would take a proposal for tougher gun laws to the National Cabinet when it meets at 4pm on Monday.

Fifteen people were killed by a father and son shooting at a gathered crowd celebrating Hanukkah.

Dozens have been injured including two police officers and the older of the two gunmen was also killed.

He was licensed to own six firearms for recreational hunting. 

Tasmanian farmers and recreational hunters, who often own a similar amount of firearms, are now concerned they will end up dealing with the repercussions. 

Mr Albanese said there would be scrutiny of gun licenses, despite Australia having some of the strictest gun laws in the world – introduced following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre.

Restrictions were placed on automatic, semi-automatic and pump action rifles, as well as shotguns, along with stricter requirements for the registration and storage of firearms.

“People can be radicalised over a period of time, licences should not be in perpetuity,” he told reporters in Sydney.

“I’ll take to National Cabinet this afternoon a proposal to empower agencies to examine what can be done in this area.”

There is currently no limit on the number of prescribed firearms that can be bought provided the owner has a valid licence and a genuine reason for each firearm, although the Firearms Act does state that 10 or more firearms in any category must be stored at premises equipped with an electronic security device. 

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns today questioned why individuals who are not farmers or involved in agriculture require "massive weapons" that endanger the public. 

Mr Minns stated at a press conference "If you're not a farmer, if you're not involved in agriculture, why do you need these massive weapons that put the public in danger and make life dangerous and difficult for New South Wales police?". 

TasFarmers President Ian Saur said the thoughts and prayers of everyone are with the families and friends of those affected during this deeply tragic time.

“I think I'm no different than everyone else, when I say I’m absolutely gobsmacked and shocked, that such indiscriminate violence would occur here in Australia,” he said. 

“There will be further discussions about the reasons behind this horrible event, but now, it is about the families, friends and first responders involved. Everything needs to remain focused on the families impacted and supporting them. It is not the time for political fervour or hysteria after such a tragedy.

“People who do not have a legitimate reason to have a gun should not have one. We should, of course, look at the legislation. For farmers, they are a tool of trade, and the legislation and the regulations around them are strong.  

"Now we need wise heads and the adults in the room to make difficult decisions, this can happen after Christmas, in the meantime, we don’t need political grandstanding.

"Any legislation that would unintentionally affect farmers having firearms as a tool of trade should be carefully considered in close consultation with the sector.”

Australian Deer Association Tasmanian coordinator Scott Freeman said it’s understandable that the reaction to a mass shooting includes looking at gun laws, however he hopes that there’s no knee-jerk reaction that affects recreational hunters who are relied upon by farmers for wild animal management.

“Australia is the gold standard in firearms control, but the reality is there are many forms of weapons, including cars and knives, so a bigger picture approach is needed,” he said.

“Most hunters would have on average around five guns, all to do different jobs, and some have many more.

“You need a suitable calibre each for rabbit, deer, kangaroo and waterfowl, and then most have some extra guns in their cabinet that their children use or that belonged to older generations and have sentimental value.

“What I know is if only farmers could own firearms they would never get the time to control the wildlife – they would eat us out of house and home.” 

With the Tasmanian Jewish community grieving, those with memories of the Port Arthur tragedy reliving the trauma and the wider public feeling devastated and unsafe, authorities are looking to foster peace and calm in whatever way they can.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff has offered his deep condolences to the people of New South Wales. 

“I've reached out on behalf of all Tasmanians to Premier Chris Minns, offering our support and condolences, particularly to those who have lost loved ones, family and friends, and the broader New South Wales community,” Premier Rockliff said. 

“I want to acknowledge and pay tribute to all community members who ran to support each other through the horror and tragedy Australians witnessed at Bondi.

“The very best of people within this country - citizens supporting each other and, of course, the first responders who so bravely looked after those injured. 
“This was an act of evil antisemitism, an act of terrorism. There is no place in Australia or anywhere for this violence.” 

This morning the Premier convened the Emergency Management Committee of Cabinet, including Tasmanian Police Commissioner, Donna Adams. 

Tasmania Police has offered additional resources to NSW if required and has assured the Tasmanian Jewish community that it will continue to work with event organisers to ensure community safety is prioritised.

Police Commissioner Donna Adams said there is no intelligence at this time indicating there is any heightened threat in Tasmania.  

Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice through Tasmanian Lifeline on 1800 984 434.