Government approves bill to ban firearms to strengthen anti-gang measures

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has announced that the Coalition Government is making significant progress in its aim to prevent serious offenders from obtaining firearms. The Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPO) Legislation Amendment Bill, part of the Government’s 100-day plan, aims to increase police powers to search gang members for illegal firearms.

“The bill targets the illegal use of firearms by gangs and organized crime groups, which are often used to intimidate, commit violent crimes and resolve conflicts,” McKee said.

The proposed amendments to the Arms Act 1983, Search and Surveillance Act 2012 and Sentencing Act 2002 will reform the FPO regime. During the second reading of the Bill today, McKee acknowledged the contributions of the Justice Select Committee, which made several important amendments to refine the focus of the Bill. These amendments include:

Clarification of the definition of an “associate of a gang or organised criminal group.”

Specifying the violations that give rise to the issuance of an FPO.

Determining the scope of new search powers to ensure compliance with FPOs.

McKee stressed the importance of these measures in combating gang influence in communities. “For too long, gangs have been an intimidating and unwelcome presence in our communities. I am confident that these measures will enable police to effectively keep firearms out of the hands of gangs and other serious offenders,” she said.

She also thanked the Justice Committee for their diligent work on the bill. “It is crucial that people have the opportunity to voice their concerns, particularly when it comes to ensuring the safety of our communities.”