The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, has called on the Allan Labor Government to give law-abiding and responsible firearms owners a fair go, as it considers recommendations from the Rapid Review of Victoria’s Firearms Laws.
In a parliamentary debate in front of a large gallery that included members from the Sporting Shooters Association, the Australian Deer Association, and Field & Game Australia, Ms Bath demanded the government protect community safety without eroding the rights of those who are already doing the right thing.
“Every decent Victorian supports public safety, and licensed firearm owners – the most scrutinised cohort in the state – support it as strongly as anyone,” Ms Bath said.
“Law-abiding firearm owners are part of our communities. They contribute to regional economies, to conservation, to food security, and to sporting traditions. They deserve respect, and they deserve a government that distinguishes clearly between them and those who operate outside the law.
“A misguided, knee-jerk approach to the review risks placing additional burden on those who are already doing the right thing, while diverting attention and resources away from the criminal market.”
The debate was triggered by a petition that received 12,500 signatures. Ms Bath echoed the petition in calling for reforms that focus on:
- Real-time, effective national registration systems that support policing.
- Strong enforcement against traffickers and organised crime.
- Continuous monitoring of licence eligibility, so risk is addressed when it emerges.
- And proportionate security requirements based on actual risk—not arbitrary limits.
“These are constructive, responsible, community‑minded proposals, and they stand in contrast to the narrative that too often dominates public debate – a narrative that paints lawful firearm owners as the problem, rather than as partners in public safety,” Ms Bath said.
“The Nationals stand with responsible firearm owners, including farmers, professional pest controllers, conservation volunteers, harvest hunters, and regional and Melbourne residents. “We call on the Allan Labor Government to ensure any reform that emerges from this review is guided by evidence, fairness, and respect for the law‑abiding Victorians.”
