The ACT has sensibly agreed to participate in the Albanese government's national gun buyback scheme launched in response to the devastating Bondi shootings in December last year. This brings the territory into line with NSW, which until now was the only state to sign up for the federal scheme. Under the arrangement, the federal government will fund 75 per cent of the compensation, administration, and firearm destruction costs.

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As a jurisdiction entirely landlocked by NSW, it is only logical for the territory to be on the same page as its larger neighbour. Furthermore, the territory is essentially a city-state and Australia's most urbanised jurisdiction. This unique geography makes it arguably a place where the need for individuals, including legitimate recreational shooters, to own large arsenals of weapons is highly questionable.

Currently, the territory has more than 7000 licensed firearm owners possessing an estimated 23,000 registered weapons. This equates to an average of just under four guns per licensed owner. While authorities rightfully acknowledge that the overwhelming majority of these licence holders are responsible and law-abiding citizens, reducing the sheer volume of firearms in circulation remains a practical........

© Canberra Times