Licensed firearms owner, primary producers and sporting and recreational shooters in the Goldfields are encouraged to attend a community firearms forum being hosted by The Nationals WA.
Leader Shane Love said law-abiding firearms owners have raised serious concerns about Labor’s new laws, including a lack of due process which saw debate gagged and the laws rushed through Parliament in recent weeks.
“The Nationals WA are the only Party which opposed Labor’s new firearms laws,” Mr Love said.
“Labor’s new laws will force many to surrender their firearms and severely impact regional firearms dealers. These laws are unnecessary and heavy-handed.
“That’s why The Nationals WA have committed to rewrite aspects of the Firearms Act 2024 if we are returned to Government at the State election.”
Mr Love also criticised the ongoing treatment of the firearms community by the Minister for Police throughout the debate and the recent distribution of thousands of misleading text messages by WA Police.
“These texts, which were inaccurate, contributed to confusion and concern for many lawabiding firearm owners, by falsely stating the new firearms act had come into law,” Mr Love said.
The existing Firearms Act 1973 will remain in effect until the Firearms Act 2024 is proclaimed, which is expected to occur in March next year.
“WA Police should be helping firearms owners navigate the new process, not sending out misleading communications.
“And it’s disappointing the Minister for Police has refused to apologise for this costly error, which has set taxpayers back around $26,000 and was totally avoidable.”
Legislative Council candidate Rob Horstman will also be attending the firearms forum.
“As a regional resident and a licensed firearm owner, I understand the importance of firearms for pest control on the family farm, and also that many people also enjoy shooting for enjoyment – either as part of a gun club or recreationally,” Mr Horstman said.
“Shooting is one of the most inclusive sports out there and can be enjoyed no matter your age or ability.
“We’re just days away from the Paris Olympics, where WA’s own Laura Coles will compete on an international level, but the Cook Labor Government is discouraging other West Australians from taking up this past-time.”
The Goldfields Firearms Forum will be held at the Tower Hotel at 5:00pm on Tuesday 9 July. All are welcome to attend.
