Gun Lobby Targets Labor Seats in New South Wales Election

The Australian Recreation Union (ARU), a gun users' group, is actively targeting marginal Labor seats in the upcoming New South Wales (NSW) election, aiming to support candidates who oppose recent firearm laws enacted following the Bondi terror attack in December 2023. The ARU has reached out to the electorate offices of 15 Labor backbenchers, including Kogarah, represented by Premier Chris Minns, and Swansea, held by Police Minister Yasmin Catley. In its communication, the ARU emphasized that its campaign is not a personal attack but a response to what it describes as an "unjustified and evidence-free position against firearm owners" taken by the NSW Labor government.

The Guardian

Following the Bondi attack on December 14, 2023, the NSW government expedited firearm control legislation, which was passed on December 24 as part of an omnibus bill that also included changes to hate speech and protest laws. The new firearm regulations limited recreational firearms to four per person and ten for commercial use, such as farming and sport shooting. The legislation received bipartisan support from the Liberal Party, led by Kellie Sloane, while the National Party opposed the changes, arguing they imposed arbitrary restrictions on farmers and regional businesses.

The Guardian

In February 2024, Sloane indicated a need to "revisit" the firearm changes, describing them as rushed, particularly after a surge in applications for sport and target shooting licenses. However, she reaffirmed the Liberal Party's commitment to implementing the legislation effectively. Gurmesh Singh, leader of the National Party, criticized the rapid passage of the laws, stating that they lacked adequate consultation and stakeholder engagement. In contrast, Yasmin Catley defended the legislation, asserting that it was a necessary response to the deadliest terrorist attack in Australia’s history, aimed at protecting the community.

The Guardian

The ARU's campaign has drawn criticism from Labor officials. Catley stated that the government would not yield to threats from the ARU, emphasizing the importance of the reforms for community safety. The ARU claims to be committed to responsible access to shooting sports and hunting, yet it does not appear in the register of third-party campaigners for the 2027 election, raising questions about its political influence and funding sources.

The Guardian

There are discrepancies regarding the level of consultation and stakeholder engagement prior to the passage of the firearm laws. While the Liberal Party acknowledges the need for ongoing discussions with stakeholders, critics argue that the legislation was rushed through without sufficient input. Additionally, the ARU has not disclosed its political donations or campaign strategies, leaving gaps in transparency regarding its influence in the upcoming election.

The Guardian

• “However, unfortunately, NSW Labor has taken an unjustified and evidence-free position against firearm owners.” — Tracy Gavan, Director, Australian Recreation Union

The Guardian

• “The aim of our tough reforms is to protect the community, and we make no apologies for that.” — Yasmin Catley, Police Minister

The Guardian

• “Chris Minns is holding farmers, sporting shooters, and law-abiding firearms owners responsible for the actions of extremist terrorists.” — Gurmesh Singh, Leader, National Party

The Guardian

This campaign by the ARU highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding firearm legislation in New South Wales and its potential impact on the upcoming election.

The Guardian