NSW National Gun Buyback Program Begins Following Bondi Terror Attack

The National Gun Buyback scheme in New South Wales has officially launched, allowing gun owners to surrender firearms and ammunition for compensation. On the first day of the program, 331 gun owners registered to hand in 2,420 firearms and 194 items of ammunition weighing 1 kg or more.

The initiative, recommended by the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, aims to reduce gun violence and enhance community safety. NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasized the importance of the buyback, stating, "Fewer unnecessary firearms in circulation means fewer opportunities for them to fall into the wrong hands." He noted that the scheme is a response to the Bondi terror attack and reflects a commitment to prioritizing community safety.

Under the first phase of the buyback, eligible gun license holders will receive between $450 and $1,000 for surrendered firearms, while those handing over ammunition will receive $150. The program is expected to run for 12 months and is projected to impact around 18% of firearm license holders in NSW.

NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley highlighted the ongoing issue of gun theft, noting that an average of one legally owned firearm is reported stolen daily. She stated that the demand for surrender appointments indicates strong engagement from eligible license holders, prompting the government to increase appointment availability.

While the buyback is part of a broader national initiative, its reception has been mixed. Some states, like Queensland, have opted out, citing concerns that the legislation does not adequately address the issue of keeping firearms away from criminals. Critics, including Nationals senator Bridget MacKenzie, have labeled the buyback as "unfair," arguing that it does not target the root causes of gun violence. NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane echoed this sentiment, describing the buyback as a "PR exercise" that fails to address illegal firearms used in crimes.