Territorians SPARED the Bill: Chief Minister Vows to Protect Locals from ‘Unfair’ National Gun Buyback Scheme
- Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro refuses to let Territorians foot the bill for a national firearm buyback scheme
- The Albanese government’s proposed scheme would see federal and state governments split the cost 50:50
- NT government supports fast-tracking a national firearms register, but not the buyback funded by Territorians
- Tasmanian Police Minister Felix Ellis calls for consultation with affected communities before making any changes to gun laws
In a bold move, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro has vowed to protect Territorians from shouldering the cost of a national gun buyback scheme, proposed by the Albanese government in the wake of the devastating Bondi Beach terrorist attack.
“If the federal government wants to put a national buyback scheme in place, they should fund it,” Ms Finocchiaro declared. “I will not have everyday Territorians foot that bill.”
The NT government has expressed support for fast-tracking a national firearms register, but Ms Finocchiaro emphasized that a “one-size-fits-all” approach to reform is not the answer. “There needs to be a measured approach to ensure reforms are genuinely needed, relevant and appropriate to each jurisdiction’s circumstances,” she said.
Meanwhile, Tasmanian Police Minister Felix Ellis has called for consultation with affected communities before making any changes to gun laws. “We’re a majority rural state, and firearms are tools of the trade as well as an important recreational activity for everyday Tasmanians,” he said.
The proposed changes come in the wake of the horrific Bondi Beach terrorist attack, which has sparked a national debate on gun laws. The attack, which left 15 innocents fatally shot and dozens more injured, has been described as “ISIS-inspired” by authorities.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the attack, the NT government is keen to see the results of the royal commission, particularly recommendations around federal criminal intelligence sharing. “We will be prompt to act based on federal intelligence,” Ms Finocchiaro assured.
NT Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby emphasized the need for constructive engagement in national discussions, but stressed that decisions affecting Territorians would always be made locally. “For many Territorians, firearms are a practical tool for work and lawful recreation, and any reform must recognise that reality,” she said.