Steggall backs gun law reform, saying it would “help close dangerous loopholes”

In the wake of the Bondi Beach terror attack on Sunday, Warringah MP Zali Steggall has backed proposed gun reform changes, including restricting firearm licences to Australian citizens, limiting the number of guns one person can own and restricting the type of guns that can be obtained. 

The legislative reforms have been proposed by the National Cabinet, an intergovernmental forum in which state and federal leaders convene.

“This abhorrent act of violence has devastated the Jewish community and shaken all Australians,” Steggall said on Tuesday morning in a statement. 

“It’s a tragic reminder that public safety must always come first - and that gun laws must be strong enough to protect all Australians and prevent future tragedies.”

Steggall said there were “more than 4 million legally owned guns in Australia - more than before the 1996 Port Arthur massacre”, and that since 2005 “at least 44,631 guns were reported stolen in Australia. Presumably, many end up possessed by criminals”.   

“Strengthening and modernising” gun laws would “help close dangerous loopholes and reduce the risk of firearms being used to cause further harm”, the MP said.

She urged Australians to “call out antisemitism - wherever it comes from, and wherever it occurs: on social media, in your communities and in public spaces”.

“All sides of politics must now work together to ensure Australians can live, gather and practice their faith free from fear.”

Thumbnail: Lukas Coch via AAP