Enough is enough. It’s time for Premier Jeremy Rockliff to step up and commit to nationally proposed firearms safety reforms.
Following the Bondi terror attack, National Cabinet agreed to progress new firearms safety measures. But since that time, Tasmania has lagged further and further behind the nation.
This week the ACT government has announced new laws to cap firearm ownership and tighten restrictions. This step follows South Australia voicing support for a buyback scheme, NSW passing new laws, and Victoria having already closed submissions for their rapid review of firearms laws. WA has an existing ownership cap in place.
While the nation moves forward, Police Minister Felix Ellis is holding Tasmania back. He has been criticising the nationally proposed reforms, casting doubt over the need for action, and engaging in cynical politics.
Not only is Minister Ellis making hollow excuses for delay, he won’t answer basic questions about the so-called ‘consultation’ he says he’s undertaking. We’ve also seen the Minister shamelessly using an online survey hosted by his personal office to collect email addresses from Tasmanians, and using those for his own political purposes.
Given the Police Minister has demonstrated he is more interested in playing identity politics than in taking the necessary steps to keep our community safe, the Greens are calling on Premier Jeremy Rockliff to intervene. We have written to him asking that he takes the lead on the issue and ensures Tasmania commits to tighter firearms restrictions and to a buyback scheme.
Our state has a proud history of leading the way on firearms safety reform. The Premier has a unique opportunity to add an important new chapter to that story and to make a real difference. It’s time for him to do the right thing.
