Tasmania tables modest gun law changes, drawing sharp criticism from opposition and advocates
Tasmania's government introduced new firearm regulations that reclassify certain guns and add a citizenship requirement, but critics say the measures are weak.
In response to calls for tighter gun rules after the Bondi attack, Tasmania's government presented a bill that reclassifies straight-pull and lever-release shotguns to a more restrictive licence tier and introduces an Australian citizenship condition for future owners, with exemptions for current holders and certain New Zealand citizens. The proposal does not impose a cap on how many guns an individual may possess, despite police commissioner Donna Adams urging such a limit.
Critics from the Greens, Labor and gun-control organisations describe the legislation as insufficient and a betrayal of community safety. Police Minister Felix Ellis argued the grandfathering clauses protect long-standing farmers, hunters and recreational shooters who have complied with existing laws. Both opposition parties have signalled they will seek amendments, including possible caps on gun numbers, when the bill is debated in early September.
Why it matters
The reforms affect firearm regulation and public safety in Tasmania, a state with a history of gun-law changes.
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