In the aftermath of the tragic events at Bondi, I’ve received numerous calls and messages from our Bass community (and around the state) about what should be the Tasmanian Government’s response to firearms laws proposals from Canberra. We can agree that this has been a deeply distressing time for all Australians, and we’ve all felt the weight of the horrific tragedy that occurred at Bondi on December 14.
I want my position as your elected MP to be strong, safe and fair: Tasmania’s focus should remain on keeping firearms out of the hands of criminals and not on unfairly disadvantaging responsible, legitimate firearms owners. By that I refer to lawful recreational hunters, farmers, or sporting shooters. As I’ve mentioned in a couple of places on social media, and as I shared in personal replies with constituents, any changes to firearms laws must be evidence-based, workable for legitimate owners and focused on keeping firearms out of the wrong hands.
Firearms laws can always be reviewed, checked and refined to ensure they work and maximise public safety. However, we should not let immediate proposals for gun law reform be used to distract the public from Canberra’s core political failure. That was a failure to strongly and consistently denounce anti-Semitism and the extremist behaviour at protests in the wake of the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. Those appalling protests in Sydney and elsewhere chanted horrific slogans against our fellow Australians with impunity.
We are considering but not simply agreeing to the federal proposals. Our state Liberal government, along with Minister Ellis and the cabinet, has emphasised a cautious and consultative approach. We are engaging with a broad group of stakeholders to ensure that any reforms are genuinely considered and tailored to Tasmania’s needs. We are focused on improving intelligence coordination and ensuring that our laws are effective without being a knee-jerk reaction.
Update: Firearms Consultative Committee Established
Since this was first written, the Tasmanian Government has taken a further step consistent with the approach I outlined above. Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Felix Ellis has appointed a new Firearms Consultative Committee to provide structured advice on firearms regulation and public safety. The Committee brings together a broad range of stakeholders including TasFarmers, the Police Association, Sporting Shooters Association of Australia, Medics for Gun Control, a firearms dealer, a recreational hunter and community representatives. This is exactly the kind of calm, consultative and evidence-based process that should guide any reform. Importantly, Tasmania’s highest priority is accelerating delivery of the National Firearms Register to improve intelligence sharing between agencies and ensure firearms are kept out of the wrong hands. Reforms must be about stopping terrorists and criminals, not penalising responsible, law-abiding firearms owners.
In times of real adversity, Tasmanians have always come together. Let’s continue to stand united, ensuring that our approach is fair, balanced, and focused on keeping all Tasmanians safe. Let me know what you think, in the comments below or through a personal email.
Michael.
PS – I share below an open letter from the Premier from December as well as some information on the path forward regarding firearms legislation that was reported in the Mercury also in December.
It’s been a deeply distressing week. For all Australians. We’ve all felt the pain and anguish of the anti-Semitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. It has brought back very painful memories for Tasmanians. It’s reminded us about the importance of being there for each other. And about eternal vigilance. We cannot let division breed hatred. Community must rise above terrorism. And we must not let those who seek to divide us ruin what makes Tasmania and Australia special.
Yes, we must ensure we have laws to protect us. And we do. Tasmania is at the forefront of ensuring hate can be confronted.
As part of the response, National Cabinet has outlined a review of firearms laws. We need to do so in a careful, considered and responsible manner. Law abiding firearm owners must be able to continue their work and their recreation. We do need to ensure our authorities are sharing vital information so that good decisions can be made to protect our community. Legislation is important. But it is our connection to community that unites us. Laws must reflect the community we are, and the community we want to be.
We must also display those beliefs and values in our everyday lives. Respect, understanding and kindness. In an era of algorithms that feed and promote polarisation, this is even more challenging and more important than ever before.
I am always proud of Tasmanians in times of adversity. We wrap our arms around each other. We bring out the best in each other. And we show that Tasmanian spirit that unites us. Backgrounds are forgotten, and we find the commonality of our Tasmanian spirit.
Today, we honour the victims of the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach. This National Day of Reflection is an opportunity to stand together with all those impacted by this senseless violence. I implore anyone who is struggling to reach out. To family. To friends. And, if needed, to the many caring community organisations here, who are ready to support and guide.
It has been tough. But we will and must unite to make us stronger. I wish all Tasmanians a safe and happy Christmas. May you find joy and happiness. Hope and opportunity.
