In brief
Following a tragic shooting at Bondi Beach that left 15 people dead, NSW has announced a gun buyback scheme to encourage owners to turn in handguns, shotguns and rifles. The state will pay up to $1,000 for eligible firearms from 2 November, with a second phase covering higher‑value weapons starting early next year. The move is part of wider gun‑control reforms that limit NSW residents to four guns, though farmers and sports shooters may keep up to ten. The buyback will be funded jointly by state and federal governments, and offers support to businesses that sell firearms. The scheme aims to curb gun violence and ensure the Bondi tragedy never repeats.
New South Wales (NSW) will launch a gun buyback scheme later this year, becoming the first state to offer cash in exchange for firearms after the tragic Bondi Beach shooting that killed 15 people.
Starting 2 November, NSW will pay up to AUS$1,000 for eligible handguns, shotguns and rifles. The amount varies by weapon type: a revolver may earn up to AUS$1,000, while an air rifle is worth AUS$450.
Government reforms already limit NSW residents to four firearms—though farmers and sports shooters may hold up to ten. The buyback targets owners who have more guns than allowed or no longer have a licence covering their weapons, with licence terms cut from five to two years.
The scheme has two phases. The initial phase covers handguns, shotguns and rifles, while a second phase beginning next year will cover higher‑value firearms above AUS$3,000, capped at AUS$10,000.
NSW and the federal government jointly fund the buyback, and businesses dealing in firearms may receive up to AUS$25,000 in support to adapt to the reforms. The Prime Minister urged that the Bondi incident should never happen again and that meaningful gun reform is essential.
The plan follows an initial promise of a nationwide buyback that stalled over funding concerns. With the Bondi attack still fresh in public memory, NSW’s move aims to prevent further tragedies and reduce the number of guns in the hands of the public.
