Regional voices force rethink on firearm cap

The Nationals' Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has acknowledged the decision to abandon proposed caps on the number of firearms a licensed owner can possess, describing it as a victory for common sense and the thousands of responsible firearm owners across regional Victoria.

Mr McCurdy said the outcome reflected the strong advocacy of farmers, recreational shooters, sporting clubs and industry groups who made their concerns known throughout the consultation process.

“The registered sporting shooters and many other law-abiding firearm operators have joined together to achieve this outcome,” Mr McCurdy said.

“Licensed firearm owners should not be treated as though they are responsible for the actions of criminals. The overwhelming majority follow strict regulations and contribute positively to our regional communities.”

Mr McCurdy said firearm owners across Ovens Valley had voiced strong concerns that arbitrary caps would unfairly target legitimate users while failing to address the real issue of illegal firearms in the hands of criminals.

“Farmers, sporting shooters and regional Victorians deserve policies that are based on evidence, not ideology,” he said.

“Limiting the number of legally owned firearms would have done little to improve community safety and would have placed unnecessary restrictions on people who already comply with some of the toughest firearm laws in the country.”

Mr McCurdy said The Nationals would continue standing up for responsible firearm owners and ensuring their voices are heard.

“We will carefully examine any legislation when it is introduced and continue advocating for practical measures that protect community safety without penalising law-abiding Victorians.”