Tasmanian Parliament Split Over Gun Ownership Caps as Independent Holds Deciding Vote

The Tasmanian House of Assembly is currently tied 17-17 on whether to insert ownership limits into the state’s firearms reform bill, a measure championed by Labor that would restrict individuals to five guns, with an allowance of up to ten for primary producers and sport shooters. Greens, along with independents Kristie Johnston, Helen Burnet and Peter George, support the caps, whereas the Liberal government, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Carlo Di Falco, and independents David O'Byrne and Craig Garland oppose them.

Independent MP George Razay, who has not revealed his position, is expected to cast the decisive vote when debate resumes on Thursday. The broader bill, introduced by Police Minister Felix Ellis in response to the 2025 Bondi terror attacks, also proposes mandatory minimum jail terms for serious firearms offences, a national firearms register, and stricter licensing rules, including citizenship requirements. Police Commissioner Donna Adams has voiced support for the caps, while the government argues they would unfairly target law-abiding owners. Over 11,000 Tasmanians have signed a petition against the caps.