Victorian firearms licences will be restricted to Australian citizens, New Zealand citizens who are permanent residents of Australia and non-citizens who need a firearm for work.
Police Minister Anthony Carbines said this ensured that the background information supplied from other jurisdictions as part of the licensing process, such as criminal record checks, was as reliable and accurate as possible.
“We will also strengthen background checks. Once regulations are introduced by the Commonwealth, if you want a firearms licence you will be required to complete a background check through AusCheck,” Mr Carbines said.
“Harsher penalties will be in place for those caught trafficking firearms, with up to 15 years in prison for people possessing bigger numbers of guns.
“The laws will also expand the chief commissioner of police’s power to temporarily reclassify firearms.
“This will allow Victoria to respond faster to new technology and emerging threats,” Mr Carbines said.
The Firearm Prohibition Order scheme will also be made permanent.
Another seven recommendations in the review do not require legislation and will be progressed in consultation with Victoria Police and other stakeholders.
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