Government To Defer Firearms Debate

Tasmanian Government

Felix Ellis, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management

The Tasmanian Government will defer the Firearms Amendment (Strengthening Firearms Security) Bill 2026 following a request by Members of Parliament.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said the Government is acting in good faith to ensure the Parliament has more time to consider the Bill before it is bought on for debate.
“We acknowledge that the Bill makes significant changes to Tasmania’s firearms framework,” Minister Ellis said.
“They have generated significant community and stakeholder feedback, and we want to give everyone the best possible opportunity to make an informed and considered decision.
“This change will have implications on the Government’s broader legislative schedule – however we have agreed to the request in good faith.
“Our proposed legislation gets the balance right. It strengthens public safety by targeting criminals, stolen firearms and intelligence gaps, while protecting the interests of responsible, law-abiding firearm owners.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the legislation receives appropriate consideration and scrutiny while continuing to engage in a collaborative manner.”
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