Gun buyback opens fissure between city and bush

August 17, 2026 — 5:12pm

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Well-intended gun law reform by national and NSW governments following the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in December 2025 is only serving to widen Australia’s city/country divide.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Chris Minns on Sunday announced a NSW gun buyback scheme, offering compensation of up to $1000 for surrendered weapons. It will also limit ownership to four weapons, with exceptions for farmers and professional shooters, who are restricted to 10. It starts in November. A second phase next year will cap compensation at $10,000 per firearm.

The suddenness of the announcement caught many unprepared. It also angered gun owners concerned that the governments not only do not understand their needs,........

© The Sydney Morning Herald