Independent Federal Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines, has backed the Government’s proposed gun laws, calling them a common-sense reform as Parliament votes on legislation in response to the Bondi terror attack.

“Responsible gun owners are not the problem – and this legislation does not target them or lay blame for the horrific Bondi attack on them,” Dr Haines said.

“There are many legitimate reasons to own firearms, particularly in rural and regional Australia. I live on a farm, and firearms are a practical tool for stock management, and pest control.”

Dr Haines said the vast majority of gun owners in Indi and across Australia are law-abiding people who do the right thing.

“These reforms are not about targeting farmers, sporting shooters or licensed gun owners,” she said. “They are about making sure people who pose a real risk – including violent extremists and individuals on an ASIO watch list – cannot legally access firearms.”

Dr Haines said the legislation would strengthen background checks by improving information-sharing between states and territories, and lays the groundwork for the long-promised National Firearms Register.

“In the wake of the horrific Bondi attack, Australians expect their leaders to act with care, responsibility and foresight,” she said.

“Law-abiding gun owners were as horrified by those events as anyone else – and they can be part of the solution.”

Dr Haines also criticised misinformation being spread about the reforms.

“This bill does not ban firearms.  And it does not blame licensed gun owners for acts of violence,” she said.

“What it does do is strengthen safeguards and help prevent guns from falling into the wrong hands. That is common sense – and it’s what Australians expect.”

ENDS