A Field and Game Australia petition supported by The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath has surpassed 12,000 signatures, triggering a debate in State Parliament.
The debate comes as the Allan Labor Government reviews Victoria’s firearm laws, with signatories urging proper enforcement of existing laws and warning against rushed, ineffective changes.
In the wake of the devastating Bondi tragedy and amid escalating concerns about extremist terrorism, Ms Bath said community safety must always come first but cautioned against hurried legislative responses that risk missing the real problem.
“Rushed and non evidence-based changes have potential to impact responsible, law-abiding firearm owners without improving public safety or reducing the risk of terrorism or serious crime,” Ms Bath said.
“Victoria already has some of the strictest firearm laws in the country and measures like firearm caps or shorter licence terms won’t stop crime or improve community safety.”
Ms Bath called on Labor to guarantee genuine consultation with firearm owners and sporting and hunting organisations.
“The petition demands policy that targets behaviour, intent and criminal access instead of the number of firearms held by compliant citizens,” said Ms Bath.
“It calls for laws that are firm, fair and focused on the real risk, including tougher penalties for trafficking and theft.
“It is essential that intelligence led processes and the right policy is adopted to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals and mitigate illegal activity, not unfairly target law abiding Victorians.”
The debate is scheduled to take place in the Legislative Council on Wednesday, 1 April 2026.
