The ACT (non)announcement

The Commonwealth’s National Gun Buyback Scheme is moving ahead, with New South Wales the first jurisdiction to sign on. The ACT Government has publicly indicated it is “very forward leaning on the buyback” and intends to sign up as soon as possible.

This update sets out what we know so far, what is happening in NSW, and what it is likely to mean for ACT Licence Holders.

Toughest Laws? A Vanguard of One.

New South Wales has become the first — and, for now, the only — jurisdiction to begin the National Gun Buyback: up to 274,000 firearms, 50,000 owners, hundreds of millions of dollars. It is billed as “nationwide” reform. Most of the country has declined it.

Where the Case Now Stands

Two independent, government-commissioned processes have now questioned the evidence base for numerical caps, and five of eight jurisdictions have declined to adopt them. This update sets out the six arguments SSAA ACT Inc is making against compulsory caps and acquisition — each one on the public record, and each one sourced.

The Buyback Stalls

As at late July 2026, the Commonwealth national gun buyback has all but stalled New South Wales is the only jurisdiction to have firmly committed, the ACT is still deciding, and a majority have declined. Five of eight have also declined ownership caps. This update sets out where the reforms now stand, why the national consistency argument has collapsed, and the legal questions that follow for the National Firearms Agreement.

Reading the Evidence

A recent Queensland opinion piece is a useful reminder to read the sources, not just the headlines. This update sets out what holds up when we do — and a pattern in how the case for tighter controls is built that members should know about.

Fee Increase

The ACT now has among the highest firearms licensing fees in the country introduced without the fee review being shown to licence holders or the Firearms Advisory Committee.

Reports are in…

Two major parliamentary and government reports have now been published. Both contain significant acknowledgements of our community’s position. SSAA ACT has written formally to the Minister for Police, the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. This update tells you what was found, what it means, and what we are doing next.

Victoria Rejects Ownership Caps

The Victorian Government has formally rejected the recommendation to cap firearms ownership following the Lay Rapid Review. This is the most significant national development since the Bondi attack — and it directly undermines the primary justification used to impose caps on our community.