SSAA NSW has expressed deep disappointment after NSW Parliament voted against a motion to disallow the regulations underpinning the Government’s firearms buyback scheme.
The motion, moved by Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP, sought to challenge a scheme that continues to raise serious concerns about fair compensation, its impact on lawful owners and what it will achieve for public safety.
SSAA NSW CEO Pete Szaak said law-abiding firearms owners deserved more than having their concerns acknowledged and then set aside.
“Our members have complied and continue to comply with the law, meet strict licensing requirements taking their firearms ownership responsibilities very seriously. They deserve that same level of accountability from those making decisions that affect them,” Mr Szaak said.
“The Government needs to explain how taking firearms from licensed, law-abiding owners will address criminal misuse. Public safety must be supported by evidence, and the financial consequences for lawful owners cannot simply be brushed aside.”
Mr Szaak said concerns about restrictions on gagging the parliamentary debate further undermined confidence in the process.
“Decisions of this magnitude demand open debate and proper scrutiny. The people carrying the cost of these changes deserve to have their concerns heard and their questions answered.”
SSAA NSW thanked Mr Butler for bringing the motion forward and the parliamentarians who remain staunch in their support of law-abiding firearms owners.
“To those who have stood alongside our members, spoken up and supported this motion, thank you. Your willingness to represent our community and challenge these measures matters,” Mr Szaak said.
SSAA NSW continues to advocate on behalf of law-abiding firearms owners (LAFOs), pressing for meaningful consultation, fair treatment and evidence-based policy.
“This vote does nothing to address the concerns we have raised, undermines public safety and only strengthens our determination to keep fighting for law-abiding firearms owners,”
“We will continue taking those concerns directly to government and parliamentarians, demanding clear answers and standing up for our members and the broader firearms community. Law-abiding firearms owners deserve a fair hearing, and SSAA NSW will keep working to ensure they get one.”
