New South Wales to launch cash gun buyback after Bondi Beach shooting

New South Wales will begin a cash-based gun buyback scheme on 2 November, the first Australian state to pay owners to surrender handguns, shotguns and rifles. The program follows the December 2023 terrorist attack on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach that left 15 dead, including a child and a Holocaust survivor.

The state government will pay up to AUS$1,000 for a revolver and AUS$450 for an air rifle, with higher-value firearms valued above AUS$3,000 eligible for compensation up to AUS$10,000 in a second phase starting early next year. The scheme targets owners who exceed the new limit of four firearms – ten for certain farmers and sports shooters – or whose licences have lapsed, with licence terms reduced from five to two years.

"We want those guns handed in, compensated for and safely destroyed," Premier Chris Minns said.

Funding for the buyback comes jointly from the NSW and federal governments. Businesses and gun dealers may receive up to AUS$25,000 to adjust to the reforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese added that the measures aim to prevent a repeat of the antisemitic terrorist attack.