WILLIAMSON CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION ON FIREARMS PERMIT DELAYS

Nationals State Member for Clarence Richie Williamson has used the NSW Parliament to call on the Minns Labor Government to take immediate action to dramatically reduce unacceptable delays being experienced by lawful, licensed firearms owners and dealers across New South Wales.

Mr Williamson said delays in the Permit to Acquire process had blown out from what was previously around 24 hours to many months, with some licensed firearms owners reporting waits of more than six months.

“These delays are simply unacceptable and are having a real impact on small businesses, farmers, sporting shooters and recreational hunters who are doing the right thing and complying with every law and regulation,” Mr Williamson said.

“I have spoken with many licensed firearms owners and firearms dealers who are incredibly frustrated by the current situation.”

“For small regional firearms businesses, these delays mean they are unable to properly trade, sell stock or provide the service their customers rely on. That has a direct impact on their viability and the local jobs they support.

“For farmers and primary producers, firearms are also an important tool for pest and feral animal control, livestock protection and biosecurity.”

“These are lawful firearms owners who have licences, comply with strict storage requirements, and follow the rules. They should not be forced to wait months simply to legally purchase a firearm.”

Mr Williamson said the Government needed to urgently address the processing backlog and ensure NSW Police had the resources and systems required to process applications within reasonable timeframes.

“We all support strong firearms laws and proper checks to ensure firearms do not fall into the wrong hands, but there is no justification for making fully licensed and law-abiding people wait six months or more,” Mr Williamson said.

“The Minns Labor Government needs to fix this mess, provide transparency around current processing times and get these delays back under control.”

“Lawful firearms owners and regional small businesses deserve a system that works.”

PHOTO – Richie pictured with Sharon and Dave Greber of North Coast Firearms Casino