Australia’s gun laws in the firing line following police deaths

Australia’s gun laws may become even tighter as states and territories are urged to work together

It’s been described as a sick ploy to lure authorities to their untimely deaths.

Two police officers shot and killed execution-style as they arrived at a remote property, three hours west of Brisbane.

Now, in the wake of the deadly Queensland siege, there are renewed calls for Australia to tighten its gun laws even further.

Speaking to Channel 7, Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce said he is open to having a rational discussion about further reforms.

“As long as we don’t get an overarching ridiculous restriction on how we utilise firearms because we utilise them for work and we do utilise them for recreation,” Joyce said.

So, what’s on the table?

Senior police officers are calling for more national consistency around firearms legislation.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb and her deputy Dave Hudson believe there needs to be a “commitment to national synergy”.

Some may be surprised to know gun laws are largely determined by individual states and territories. Meanwhile, the federal government is responsible for regulating the importation of the weapons.

“Every state has their own laws and things they need to consider, but as long as the intent is the same then we are in a better place. States can work out their own framework but come together and improve and learn from each other,” Hudson said.

Australia’s 1996 gun reforms

The Port Arthur massacre saw 35 people killed and 23 others injured when Martin Bryant entered a café at the historic site.

It was this event which prompted the Australian government’s massive overhaul and tightening of the nation’s gun laws.

But this was more than a century ago. Since then, restrictions have remained relatively untouched.

The head of QLD Police Union says if things can be done better, they should be.

Changes being floated by top authorities include further mental health checks for gun owners and a national register.

Labor MP Meryl Swanson said the government is prepared to work with jurisdictions around the country to tighten laws, if required.

“States are mainly, let’s face it, the ones responsible for the registration and control of guns. But we will work with them. Let’s just see what the inquiry brings forth from that horrendous incident,” Swanson said.

It’s likely a decision will be made following the next national cabinet meeting in 2023.