National Gun Buyback Schemes in Australia and Canada: A Comparative Analysis

In the wake of recent mass shootings, both Australia and Canada have proposed national gun buyback schemes aimed at reducing the number of dangerous firearms in circulation. Australia's initiative, announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, seeks to establish the largest gun buyback in 30 years following the Bondi terror attack. However, as of late March 2026, several state governments, including Queensland, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, have declined to participate, citing existing strong firearms laws and the need for further consultation. In contrast, Canada's program, which targets assault-style firearms, faces significant opposition from local police forces and provincial governments, complicating its implementation.

The Guardian

The Australian federal government has accused state leaders who refuse to join the buyback scheme of obstructing efforts to enhance public safety. The New South Wales government is the only clear supporter, while Western Australia and Tasmania have initiated their own buyback efforts. South Australia has stated it has not received a proposal from the federal government, and Victoria is awaiting a review before making a commitment. Critics, including shadow home affairs minister Jonno Duniam, argue that the buyback is a distraction from more pressing issues, such as antisemitism and extremism.

The Guardian

In Canada, the federal government has faced significant pushback from local police forces, with many municipalities opting out of the buyback program. This has led to confusion among gun owners regarding compliance with the new regulations. The deadline for declaring ownership of banned firearms is March 31, 2026, with a subsequent deadline of October 30 for surrendering or deactivating these firearms. The reluctance of police forces to participate has raised concerns about the program's effectiveness, as only a few municipalities have agreed to collect surrendered firearms.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

The Australian government emphasizes the need for national consistency in gun laws, stating, “Gun laws are only as strong as the weakest state.” In Canada, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree acknowledged the challenges of the buyback program, admitting that local police services lack the resources to effectively manage the collection of firearms. Halifax Police Chief Don MacLean supports the buyback, viewing it as an extension of existing programs aimed at reducing gun violence.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Opposition to the Australian buyback scheme comes from various state governments and interest groups, such as the Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia, which argue that the initiative lacks clarity and consultation. In Canada, the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police has framed the program as a bureaucratic distraction, highlighting its vague rules and high staffing demands. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has labeled the initiative a “gun grab against law-abiding firearms owners,” further complicating the program's rollout.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Discrepancies exist regarding the number of firearms affected by the Canadian buyback, with government estimates ranging from 150,000 to 518,000. In Australia, the financial implications of the buyback remain unclear, with no final cost released despite the federal government indicating a significant financial commitment.

The Guardian

Both countries face critical deadlines for their respective buyback programs, with Australia needing to rally state support and Canada grappling with local police participation. The effectiveness of these initiatives will largely depend on cooperation between federal and state authorities, as well as public acceptance of the proposed measures.

The Guardian