The Firearms Consultative Committee will strive to strike a balance between support for responsible gun owners and the need to protect the public. Photo: Jordi Tudela.
The Tasmanian Government has established a new body aimed at regulating firearms, with its nine inaugural members appointed.
The Firearms Consultative Committee will be chaired by the Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Felix Ellis, and will serve as a dedicated forum to advise the government on issues relating to firearms regulation and public safety.
Mr Ellis said the committee would unite experienced Tasmanians who would find a balance between community safety and fairness to responsible firearms owners.
The inaugural members are:
- Cr Cheryl Arnol
- Nathan Cox, TasFarmers
- Sgt Cam Little, Police Association of Tasmania
- Andrew Judd, Sporting Shooters Association of Australia
- Stephen Bendle, Alannah & Madeline Foundation
- Dr Phill Pullinger, Medics for Gun Control
- Geoff Hendley, firearms dealer
- Ellen Freeman, recreational hunter
- Deborah Thomson, Engender Equality.
“The Bondi terrorist attack was an absolute tragedy and we owe it to the victims to ensure this never happens again,” Mr Ellis said.
“We support stronger laws to stop terrorists and criminals getting access to firearms, and reforms must result from a consultative, evidence-based process.
“Tasmania will take a calm and considered approach, with the highest priority being accelerating the National Firearms Register for better intelligence sharing.”
Mr Ellis said Tasmania was the leading jurisdiction when it came to firearms reform, and the committee’s first meeting would review alterations to legislation and enable the NFR to ensure firearms weren’t ending up in the hands of the wrong people.
The first meeting is scheduled for next month.
