The Nationals’ State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, has supported the Victorian Government's decision to reject proposed firearm ownership caps following the independent review of Victoria's firearms laws.
The rapid review was launched by the State following the tragic Bondi attack. While one the gunman was a licensed firearm owner (the younger perpetrator was unlicensed), the incident prompted a broad examination of Victoria's firearms framework.
The review, led by former Victoria Police Commissioner Ken Lay AO APM, received more than 500 submissions and included 40 face-to-face consultations across Victoria, including a forum run by Mr Bull in East Gippsland.
Mr Bull said the outcome demonstrated that community consultation can make a difference.
“In that forum it was made clear that gun caps were not something that was palatable, or workable,” he said.
“Some sporting shooters require up to eight firearms to compete in a single discipline, while those involved in vermin control need access to a range of calibre-specific firearms to do their jobs effectively. Having the choice of the right firearm for the task supports better safety outcomes.
"It was also highlighted that firearm limits could unintentionally restrict opportunities for young people involved in shooting sports.
“Because firearms used by those under 18 must be registered under a parent's licence, proposed caps could have forced families to choose between supporting a child's participation in organised shooting sports or retaining firearms required for farming, recreation or preserving family heirlooms.
"I'm proud of what our East Gippsland forum contributed. We had farmers, elite sporting shooters, parents, hunters and business operators all providing practical, real-world insight.
"Reducing the number of legally owned firearms would not stop criminals obtaining illegal weapons, nor would it have prevented tragedies such as the Bondi attack,” Mr Bull said.
Mr Bull noted that other recommendations included measures to modernise classifications, strengthen eligibility requirements and improve oversight and intelligence sharing.
"This process shows you can strengthen laws and improve community safety while still listening to responsible licence holders who do the right thing every day.
"I thank everyone from East Gippsland who took the time to participate in the consultation process and ensure regional voices were heard," he said.
Caption: The Nationals’ Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, pictured at Gunsport Trading Bairnsdale, with owner, Andrew Lind.
Monday, 1 June 2026
