Hunter MP Dan Repacholi says proposed federal gun law changes are being misunderstood, with most controversial reforms coming from State governments. Speaking ahead of this week’s debate in Canberra, Repacholi said the federal bill focuses on illegal imports, 3D-printed firearms and national background checks.
“State governments regulate licensing and limits. The federal government regulates imports and emerging threats,” he said.
“These are two very different things. The changes most people are unhappy with are decisions the New South Wales government has already made.”
Repacholi said the buyback scheme being debated is designed to ensure fair compensation for law-abiding owners affected by state changes.
“A buyback is not about punishing licensed firearms owners. It’s about making sure there’s fair compensation,” he said.
The Hunter MP, a former Olympic shooter, said he is consulting with industry and community groups to make sure their voices are heard. “My job is to make sure all their voices are being heard whilst also trying to make sure we have the right legislation,” he said.
Repacholi also urged cooperation on proposed hate speech laws, saying Australians want politicians to work together. “They don’t want us to be here arguing and carrying on like school kids. They want us to actually do something that’s going to make a difference,” he said.
That was perhaps aimed at Nationals Senator Ross Cadell, who labelled Repacholi ‘double standards Dan’ in a press release on Sunday.
Cadell says the decision will reveal whether Repacholi truly represents the Hunter.
“Dan has two choices this week,” Cadell said. “He can stand up for the people of the Hunter and oppose these overzealous and unfairly targeted changes to gun laws, or he can follow the lead of his puppet master and once again sell out the people who elected him.”
The vote is expected later this week.
