Firearms amnesty comes into effect

Police Minister Jack Dempsey today launched a three month firearms amnesty to allow those with unregistered firearms to surrender or register the weapons.

Mr Dempsey said the amnesty, which began on February 1, also heralded the introduction of tough laws in relation to illegal firearms use.

“Since the amnesty began on February 1, we have seen more than 310 firearms surrendered or handed in to be registered,” Mr Dempsey said.

“The amnesty gives those who are trying to comply with the law the opportunity to register or surrender any unregistered firearms they may have.

“Those wishing to take advantage of the amnesty can do so at registered firearms dealers or their local police station.”

Mr Dempsey said the new laws, passed through Parliament late last year, signalled an end to the ‘slap on the wrist’ approach the former Labor Government used in relation to illegal firearms.

“The new laws send a clear message that trafficking, supply, unlawful possession and use of illegal firearms is not tolerated in Queensland,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Queenslanders can be assured that those caught using firearms illegally will feel the full force of the law.”

The new firearms laws will include:

• An offender convicted of trafficking illegal firearms will serve a mandatory minimum term of five years in custody
• An offender convicted of supplying illegal firearms will serve a mandatory minimum term of three years in custody
• An offender convicted of possessing an illegal firearm that is used in the commission of an indictable offence will serve a mandatory minimum term of 18 months in custody
• An offender who unlawfully possesses an illegal firearm for the purpose of committing or facilitating the commission of an indictable offence will serve a mandatory minimum term of one year in custody
• An offender convicted of possessing an illegal firearm in a public place will serve a mandatory minimum term of one year in custody.

Acting Assistant Commissioner (Metropolitan North Region) Anne MacDonald said members of the public are encouraged to hand back unregistered firearms and other weapons.

“The amnesty, which ends on 30 April 2013, allows firearm owners who have an unregistered firearm to register it under their current licence,” Assistant Commissioner MacDonald said.

“Additionally, unlicensed owners can apply for a licence and anyone can surrender their unregistered firearm to be destroyed or sold to a firearms dealer.

“Mobile firearm destruction vans are located at Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and Townsville.

“Those handing in firearms should ensure they are not loaded, remove the bolt or firing mechanism if safe to do so and inform officers at the police station or firearm dealer you have a weapon to hand in or register in your vehicle.”

[ENDS] 13 February 2013

Media Contacts: Danny Donald 0439 719 116 or Lea Emery 0417 226 114