38,000 Guns Surrendered in Western Australia for Cash Ahead of New Laws

In Western Australia, a significant buyback program led to the surrender of 38,000 firearms as part of a $64.3 million initiative by the Labor government. This program, which ran for six months, offered gun owners up to $1,000 for each weapon returned, in anticipation of new stringent gun laws set to take effect in March 2025. Over 20,500 licensed individuals participated, resulting in a notable decrease in total gun licenses in the state, dropping from 88,132 to 82,065. The government aims to enhance public safety by removing unnecessary firearms from circulation, with half of the surrendered guns already destroyed. Police Minister Paul Papalia highlighted the positive response to the buyback, noting that more than 10% of licensed guns were surrendered. The new legislation will introduce mandatory health assessments, including mental health checks, and stricter storage requirements for gun owners. Additionally, individuals applying for a gun license will be required to complete mandatory firearms training. A digital licensing scheme will provide real-time access to gun license details for police, marking a significant shift in firearm regulation in the state. Premier Roger Cook emphasized that this legislation prioritizes public safety over the privilege of gun ownership. However, opposition leaders have criticized the government, suggesting that the buyback and new laws are politically motivated and instill fear among the population. Concerns have also been raised regarding police exemptions from the new Firearms Act, indicating ongoing debates about the implications of these changes in legislation.