New South Wales rolls out firearm repurchase initiative after Bondi tragedy

New South Wales is set to become the

New South Wales is set to become the first jurisdiction to launch a firearm repurchase program, a measure originally pledged in the aftermath of the Bondi Junction attack. Under the initiative, licensed gun owners will be eligible for compensation of up to $10,000 for each weapon surrendered.

The program, which begins next month, targets firearms that are deemed high-risk or not commonly used for legitimate sporting or recreational purposes. Authorities have emphasized that the scheme is voluntary, aiming to reduce the number of weapons in circulation without penalizing lawful owners.

State officials confirmed that the buyback will prioritize semi-automatic rifles, certain shotguns, and other firearms identified in a recent review of gun laws. The review was commissioned after the April attack, in which six people were killed, leading to widespread calls for stricter regulations.

Police and community leaders have welcomed the move

Police and community leaders have welcomed the move, noting that similar buybacks in other countries have helped decrease firearm-related violence. However, some shooting clubs and firearm rights advocates have expressed concerns, arguing that the program unfairly targets responsible owners.

Funding for the initiative has been allocated in the state budget, with an estimated total cost of $50 million over the next two years. The government has also pledged to invest in additional mental health support and community safety measures alongside the buyback.

Firearm owners interested in participating must contact the state's firearms registry to arrange an appraisal and collection. The process is expected to be streamlined, with payments processed within three weeks of surrender.

The move positions New South Wales as a

The move positions New South Wales as a leader in firearm reform, with other states reportedly monitoring the program's rollout as they consider similar measures. Federal officials have expressed support, though they stopped short of committing to a nationwide scheme.