In Australia, we have made substantial progress in gun control since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre — a national tragedy that led to landmark reforms and saved countless lives. Those reforms demonstrated that decisive, evidence-based gun laws can dramatically reduce mass shootings and gun-related deaths, and they became a model for the world.

However, recent acts of violence remind us that gun policy cannot remain static. While Australia’s overall gun homicide rate remains lower than many countries, firearms are still used in a significant proportion of homicides, and the number of legally owned firearms has continued to increase over time. At the same time, thousands of firearms are reported stolen each year, contributing to the circulation of illegal weapons and increasing risks to public safety.

Most recently, a violent attack at Bondi Beach — during a public Hanukkah celebration — shocked communities across the country. People had gathered peacefully to celebrate culture, faith, and community, yet lives were lost and many others were traumatised. This event highlighted how deeply gun violence affects not only individuals, but entire communities, and how fear can undermine people’s ability to safely express their identity in public spaces.

These realities underline the need for ongoing review and modernisation of Australia’s gun laws. Strong regulations only remain effective when they adapt to emerging risks. This includes strengthening licensing processes, improving information-sharing between states and territories, enforcing safe storage requirements, and ensuring early intervention and monitoring where risks are identified.

Importantly, public support for strong gun control remains high. Research consistently shows that the majority of Australians support maintaining — and where necessary strengthening — firearm regulations to protect community safety. Australians understand that responsible gun laws are not about fear, blame, or punishment, but about prevention, accountability, and care.

This petition calls on our leaders to act decisively to protect innocent lives, preserve community safety, and ensure that public spaces remain places of connection, celebration, and belonging — not fear. By signing this petition, you are supporting a safer and more secure future for all Australians.