The Daily Aus The future of Australia's gun laws
Dec 16, 2025
State and territory leaders are pushing to strengthen gun laws following a tragic antisemitic attack in Bondi. The discussion revisits the 1996 reforms initiated after the Port Arthur massacre, outlining key elements like ownership bans and licensing rules. With rising gun ownership concentrated among fewer people, proposed reforms include ownership caps and stricter reviews for licenses. The political landscape shows a bipartisan push for change, highlighting the urgency for new measures to better protect Australians against extremism.
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Port Arthur Prompted Rapid Reform
- The 1996 Port Arthur massacre led to sweeping national gun reforms within weeks.
- John Howard's National Firearms Agreement banned certain weapons, introduced a buyback and stricter licensing.
Fewer Owners, More Guns Each
- Australia now has about 4 million registered firearms and roughly one gun per seven people.
- Fewer licence-holders possess more guns, with average owners holding over four firearms.
Gun Numbers Have Grown Since 1996
- A recent report found a 25% increase in guns since 1996 and concentrated ownership in individuals.
- Two suburban Sydney residents reportedly own over 300 firearms each, highlighting regulation gaps.