Australian state to launch gun buyback after Bondi Beach attack

New South Wales (NSW), Australia's most populous state, will become the first in the country to offer cash payments for surrendered firearms. The scheme begins on 2 November and comes as a direct response to the terror attack that struck Sydney's Bondi Beach in December.

Firearm owners will be able to receive up to AUS$1,000 (about £523) for handing in eligible handguns, shotguns and rifles. State premier Chris Minns said on Saturday that the goal is to have guns handed in, compensated for, and safely destroyed, adding that the scheme could see hundreds of thousands of weapons surrendered.

NSW had already tightened firearm ownership rules, limiting most individuals to four guns, while farmers and sports shooters may hold up to ten. The buyback targets those who now own more firearms than permitted, or whose licences have lapsed under a new two-year renewal term, down from five years.

The rollout will happen in two phases. The first, starting in early November, covers handguns, shotguns and rifles — a revolver, for instance, will fetch AUS$1,000, while an air rifle will bring AUS$450. The second phase, beginning early next year, will cover higher-value firearms worth more than AUS$3,000, with payments capped at AUS$10,000. The scheme is jointly funded by the NSW and federal governments, with businesses able to claim up to AUS$25,000 in support to adjust to the changes, and additional help available for gun dealers.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said everything must be done to prevent a repeat of the antisemitic terror attack in Bondi, calling for meaningful nationwide gun reform.

On 14 December last year, 15 people — including a 10-year-old girl and a Holocaust survivor — were killed when gunfire broke out during Hanukkah celebrations near the famous beach. Australian authorities had initially planned a nationwide buyback scheme, but it was delayed by disputes over funding and implementation.