George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you very much indeed, Senator Muir. That is a very important question. Obviously the government is studying and will study all current and future reviews whether the coronial inquiry, the departmental review or other reviews that have followed in the wake of the Martin Place siege. One of the measures that the government has undertaken is the National Firearms Agreement, which does set out a national approach to the regulation of firearms. The Firearms and Weapons Policy Working Group, comprising members of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments and policing agencies, is currently considering technical updates to the National Firearms Agreement as a result of recommendations made in the Martin Place siege review. Any recommended updates will aim to strengthen and streamline firearms regulation by addressing technological advancements and changes to the firearms market that have occurred since the National Firearms Agreement in its initial form was signed in 1996.

Relevant stakeholders will be consulted throughout the process including those from the firearms community and other appropriate groups and organisations. I can tell you, Senator Muir, that my department has established a firearms industry reference group comprising peak bodies from the firearms industry to provide advice on the update. Ministers, relevant police ministers and attorney-generals from all jurisdictions will consider the updated version of the National Firearms Agreement in November.