Summary
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a national gun buyback program following a terrorist attack in Bondi that resulted in 15 deaths. This measure aims to remove surplus, banned, and illegal firearms in a bid to prevent future incidents. The program is reminiscent of the one undertaken after the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
Key Facts
- The Bondi attack led to 15 fatalities, including a 10-year-old.
- More than 4 million firearms are currently in Australia, surpassing the number at the time of the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.
- The buyback program will involve both federal and state/territory governments sharing costs and responsibilities.
- The Australian Federal Police will handle the destruction of surrendered firearms.
- Broader gun law reforms are also being considered, including a national firearms register and limits on gun ownership.
- The proposed legislation for funding the buyback will be introduced shortly.
