FARMERS CONTINUE FIREARMS REFORM ADVOCACY

NSW Farmers says producers will be frustrated after a move to disallow regulations underpinning the state’s firearms buyback scheme failed to gain sufficient support in the NSW Parliament.

The organisation says farmers have repeatedly raised concerns about the practical and financial impacts of the reforms, with firearms used for legitimate purposes including pest and feral animal control.

The first phase of the buyback is due to begin on 2 November, with a fixed compensation schedule applying to eligible firearms affected by new ownership limits and classification changes.

NSW Farmers President Rebecca Reardon says farmers support strong firearms laws and community safety, but should not be financially disadvantaged by changes requiring them to surrender legally owned firearms.

The organisation says it will continue advocating for a fair buyback process that recognises the needs of primary producers and ensures farmers are not left carrying the cost of the reforms.