Owners of antique firearms could soon see significantly relaxed regulations, with the state government seeking feedback on modifications to the Firearms Act.
The proposed changes aim to strike a balance between supporting law-abiding collectors and ensuring community safety, Police Minister Felix Ellis said.
“We recognise that antique firearms are often valuable heirlooms, passed down generations, or collected for their historical value,” he said.
The revised law will simplify the process of retaining antique firearms manufactured before January 1, 1900, eliminating licensing requirements and the need for a firearms safety course.
Owners will only need to provide basic information when registering their firearm with Tasmania Police, including details of where and how it is stored, in a process that will be free of charge.
There will be no requirement for engraving or stamping the weapon, while guns for display will need to be securely stored in a rack or locked display cabinet fitted with glass or other materials strong enough to prevent theft.
The changes will apply to antique firearms that are not designed to fire cartridge ammunition and for which cartridge ammunition is not commercially available.
They were first promised during this year’s state election campaign, after Ellis admitted the government had got previous amendments wrong.
The proposed alterations are open for public comment until November 27.
