New Weapons Consultation Forum for QLD

Minister for Police Bill Byrne today announced in Queensland Parliament the establishment of a new Weapons Consultation Forum.

 “Firearms policy is an emotive issue for many in the community and there are strongly held views from different sectors about different aspects of firearms regulation and licensing,” Minister Byrne said.

 “In establishing this new forum we wanted to ensure any policy framework reflected the diverse needs of all key stakeholders including police, victims of crime, recreational and sporting shooters as well as the Agriculture sector.

 “I want to make it clear that the new Weapons Consultation Forum will be different to the former Government’s Ministerial Weapons Advisory Panel.

 “The former LNP’s panel had no representation from the broader community, and only had police officer representation, via the Queensland Police Union, as a last minute afterthought from the then-Premier

 “The membership of the new Forum will be determined by Government, following an expression of interest process. This is similar to the Parole Board process. 

“I want to ensure that our administrative practises reflect the spirit and object of the Weapons Act in Queensland – and that is, to maintain public safety, above all else.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Michelle Connolly 0478 325 738