ACT Introduces Strict Gun Possession Limits
The stralian Capital Territory authorities proclaims complete reforms to firearms laws following the tragic Bondi terror assault. The proposed Firearms (Public Security) Modification Invoice 2026 goals to boost public security by limiting the variety of legally owned weapons and imposing stricter controls on firearm classifications. This invoice might be offered to the Legislative Meeting this week.
Beneath the brand new measures, licensed people face a cap of 5 firearms. Exceptions for respectable occupational or sporting wants allow possession of as much as 10 weapons. The reforms additionally recategorize firearm varieties, introducing restrictions on journal capacities and rapid-fire capabilities to align with trendy security requirements.
New Offense for 3D-Printed Gun Blueprints
A key provision criminalizes the possession of blueprints for producing firearms or elements through 3D printing. This addresses rising dangers from superior manufacturing applied sciences. Police, Hearth and Emergency Companies Minister Dr. Marisa Paterson emphasizes that these modifications reply to heightened nationwide safety issues recognized after the Bondi incident.
“Canberrans anticipate firearms legal guidelines that prioritize group security,” Dr. Paterson states. “These reforms sort out dangers from limitless firearm possession and replace classifications for consistency with nationwide requirements.”
The ACT joins a number of jurisdictions reviewing gun legal guidelines in response to the December 14, 2025, assault at Bondi Seaside, the place 15 individuals misplaced their lives throughout a Chanukah by the Sea occasion. Attackers Sajid Akram and his son Naveed focused attendees; Sajid was fatally shot by police, whereas Naveed stays in custody going through 15 homicide prices, amongst others. Particulars from investigations verify the father-son duo’s involvement within the taking pictures that injured dozens extra, together with two officers [abc.net.].
Addressing Outdated Legal guidelines and Rising Incidents
With over 22,000 registered firearms held by greater than 7,118 licensed homeowners within the ACT, officers describe present laws as outdated amid technological developments like 3D printing. Dr. Paterson highlights the invoice’s deal with legislative gaps.
“The laws now criminalizes possessing blueprints for 3D-printed weapons, closing vulnerabilities in producing unlawful firearms,” she provides. “Group security drives the ACT Authorities’s agenda, with further firearms reforms deliberate all year long.”
These proposals align with the nationwide cupboard’s dedication to bolster gun legal guidelines, together with potential limits on particular person holdings and licensing tied to citizenship. Additional enhancements are anticipated within the coming months.
Police Insights on Firearm Traits
ACT Chief Police Officer Scott Lee helps the five-firearm restrict, drawing from analysis by Western stralian counterparts. Current knowledge reveals a surge in firearm-related incidents, predominantly involving unlicensed or unlawful weapons. Many originate from thefts by registered homeowners, fueling a ‘gray market’ of illicit arms.
“Illegal firearms circulating locally typically stem from thefts by licensed holders,” Deputy Commissioner Lee explains.
These reforms goal to scale back such dangers, selling safer communities throughout the territory.
