By Tasmania commits to overhaul of antique firearms laws.
In January this year, the Tasmanian police commissioner cancelled the long-standing exemption no.4, that allowed for people to collect antique firearms in Tasmania.
This resulted in those who were in possession of antiques being left with little choice other than applying for a full firearms license, selling the antique to a dealer or surrendering the item to police for destruction.
Collectors were rightfully angry. This kneejerk policy change was done without consultation or notice and came into effect immediately upon notice.
As Tasmania was heading to the polls in a matter of months, SIFA engaged with the government and opposition, who both agreed the changes were hasty and unbalanced, with each committing that if elected they would legislate a new framework for antique firearms collectors.
SIFA has today received notice that the Tasmanian Liberal government and Police Minister Felix Ellis, have committed to making legislative changes relating to antique firearms, with amendments currently being developed that will form a bill to presented to parliament later this year.
Minister Ellis has stated his commitment for reform of antique firearms laws is as follows:
- there will be no licensing requirements and no requirement to do a firearms safety course
- antique firearms that were manufactured before 1 January 1900 will only require registration with Tasmania Police
- the process will be entirely free
- owners will only need to provide contact details, information about the type of firearm, including where and how it is stored
- there will be no requirement to engrave or stamp the antique firearm, and
- if the antique is to be displayed, there will be requirements that it is safely secured in a rack or locked display cabinet fitted with glass or similar material to prevent theft.
On SIFA raising concerns on how Tasmanian firearms owners will be impacted by any changes, Mr Ellis has stated “I can advise that community consultation will occur prior to progression of the proposed amendments. This will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to express their views, present any recommendations in more detail, and directly contribute to the legislative process”.
SIFA thanks Minister Ellis for his engagement with us to date, and we look forward to being part of the consultation process, ensuring that any proposals put forward are fact-based and proportionate to the risk that antique firearms pose.
