We can all be proud that Australia made historic and important changes to our firearm laws after the horrific Port Arthur tragedy in 1996. But the situation today may shock you. Most recently, the Australian Government’s committed to provide $161.3 million in funding to implement the National Firearms Register.
While we applaud these milestones, the situation today may shock you.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of facts, statistics and Frequently Asked Questions to help you understand the current state of Australia’s firearm laws, changes the Foundation is advocating for, and the progress we’ve made so far to ensure our firearm laws are responsible, safe and strong.
Why is the Alannah & Madeline Foundation advocating for firearm reforms?
The Alannah & Madeline Foundation has been actively engaging with policymakers, law enforcement, and community organisations to raise awareness and support for gun reforms for 28 years.
The Foundation’s founder Walter Mikac AM was instrumental in calling on the then Prime Minister John Howard for gun reforms after the Port Arthur tragedy in 1996. This led to all Australian governments coming together to strengthen gun laws through the National Firearms Agreement which established a minimum set of requirements for the management of firearms in Australia.
One of the requirements set out in the agreement was a “nationwide register of firearms”. After almost 30 years of campaigning, the National Firearms Register is finally set to roll out over the next four years thanks to recent Federal Government funding.
Other reforms included the banning of automatic and semi-automatic guns and a national buyback of firearms.
We have continued to agitate for change and have made positive progress in generating discussions and encouraging action towards safer gun laws in our country.
Facts and statistics about the current state of Australia's firearm laws
- Unfortunately, even after 28 years no state or territory government in Australia is fully compliant with the National Firearms Agreement. However, as of 27 April 2024, the Government committed $161.3 million in funding to implement the National Firearms Register – the final piece of the Firearms Agreement puzzle, which was promised but never implemented.
- There are more than three million firearms in Australia, both legal and illicit. More now than there were prior to the Port Arthur tragedy in 1996. There are fewer owners, but they own more guns.
- Recent research from Deakin University explained how easy it was for criminals to get firearms that were unregistered, stolen or imported in Australia.
- Children as young as 12 years are legally permitted to use firearms in Australia. The National Firearm Agreement states that no one under 18 should be licensed to use or possess a firearm. However, all jurisdictions circumvent this clause by having a permit system for children that allows them to use firearms under the supervision of a licensed firearm owner.
- In NSW, between 2002 – 2016, 35% of firearm death and injuries were assault, 33% were self-harm & 21% were accidents, according to a study by the Medical Journal of Australia.
- Gun shots wound are the third highest cause of death in family violence homicide victims, according to The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
- Alarmingly, there is an emerging trend in the use of firearms as a source of coercive control in family violence situations.
Learn more about some of the inconsistencies in Australia's firearm laws here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Alannah & Madeline Foundation supporting gun reforms in Australia?
The Alannah & Madeline Foundation is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children. We support gun reforms in Australia as a proactive measure to enhance child safety by advocating for responsible firearm ownership and reducing the risk of gun-related harm to children and the community. We champion and strengthen the rights of children and young people to live free from violence and trauma wherever they live, learn and play.
What specific changes in firearm laws is the Foundation fighting for?
The Foundation advocates for measures such as stricter licensing requirements, safe storage regulations, enhanced background checks for firearm owners, and the implementation of a National Firearms Register. We believe these changes can reduce the risk of unauthorised access to firearms and their potential use in harming children and the greater community.
How will these reforms keep the community and children safer?
These reforms will benefit children by creating a safer environment in which they can grow and thrive. By reducing the risk of firearm accidents, self-harm, and access to firearms by unauthorised individuals, we aim to protect children from gun-related incidents and ensure their overall safety.
How will the Foundation ensure that the privileges of responsible gun owners are not infringed upon by these reforms?
The Foundation is committed to the nationally agreed principle that firearm use and possession is a privilege, not a right, and is contingent on public safety.
We work closely with stakeholders to develop reforms that recognise this but also understand that law abiding firearm owners are able to pursue their hobby or sport.
How can I support the Foundation's advocacy for firearm reforms in Australia?
Your support is crucial. You can get involved by donating to the Foundation's Advocacy efforts, contacting local representatives, and spreading the word about the importance of responsible firearm ownership. Your involvement can make a significant difference.
