Firearm law amendments tabled in Tasmanian parliament

A bill to amend firearm laws has been tabled in 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 of 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.

Grandfathering provisions have been added for existing licenced firearm owners otherwise impacted by citizenship and reclassification requirements to support the transition to the new arrangements.

The bill follows extensive consultation, with more than 640 submissions received on the draft legislation and proposed antique firearms reforms.

Police Minister Felix Ellis said the Firearms Amendment (Strengthening Firearms Security) Bill will help keep firearms out of the hands of terrorists and criminals.

“The legislation supports implementation of the National Firearms Register in Tasmania, strengthening law enforcement and intelligence agencies’ ability to share critical information in near-real time across jurisdictions,” Mr Ellis said.

“Stolen firearms also fuel the black market, empower organised crime and put our community at risk.

“We are getting the balance right, with the Bill introducing tough new mandatory sentences for the theft and possession of stolen firearms.

"If you steal a firearm, or you're caught with a stolen firearm, you will spend time behind bars."

Mr Ellis said the Tasmanian government was negotiating with the Commonwealth about the gun buyback scheme, but acknowledged that there may be some differences pending passage of the Bill.

He also said a six-month voluntary buyback on all firearms is proposed to begin following Royal assent of the legislation.

“We have heard clearly from Tasmanians that they want firearms reform that improves safety while supporting law-abiding firearms owners, especially in our regional communities,” Mr Ellis said.

“Like most other jurisdictions, our Government does not support caps because it only penalises law-abiding firearms owners. Our focus is on keeping firearms out of the hands of terrorists and criminals.
“We thank the many Tasmanians who have contributed to the development of these reforms, which strike the right balance.”