Locked and unloaded

FIREARM owners are being urged to prepare for changes to firearm storage requirements from August 30, with new legislation to be imposed on all licensed firearm owners. From August 30, Category A and B longarms must be stored in a purpose–built steel storage receptacle that:  is of a thickness of at least 1.6mm which complies with Australian/New Zealand standard 1594:2002 (as amended from time to time);  if the receptacle weighs less than 150kg when it is empty it must be bolted to the structure of the premises where the firearm is authorised to be kept; and  is locked with a lock of sturdy construction when the firearm is stored in it. Also from August 30, Category C and D longarms and general category handguns must be stored in a purpose–built steel storage receptacle of the aforementioned specifications. The new receptacles will be expected to be purpose–built for the storage of firearms, with those licence holders currently storing their firearms in bolted clothing lockers or hardwood receptacles encouraged to begin making plans to upgrade. Eastern Region Division 4 divisional firearms officer Leading Senior Constable Andrew Auhl said the new changes were designed to curtail further serious offending if firearms fell into the hands of thieves. Police are anticipating high demand for commercially made gun safes, and outlined discretion may be granted to owners who attempt to proactively upgrade their storage before August 30, as long as proof of purchase is provided. LSC Auhl said police will be carrying out regular checks at the premises of licence holders over the coming months to ensure owners have addressed their storage compliance. Licence holders are urged to avoid keeping firearms at vacant properties or holiday homes, which can become the target of theft, as these properties do not meet safety requirements and standards. LSC Auhl also warned gun owners not to leave tools lying around in the vicinity of any storage receptacle but to make sure they are locked away to prevent them being used in a theft or break–in. He said it was important to secure the safe keys in a room separate to the room the firearms are secured to make it more difficult for firearms to be stolen. "Offenders will often look for soft targets and take advantage by stealing firearms," he said. "You should also store ammunition in a separate locked container. "Remember – if your guns are stolen due to your lack of care and attention, you may be charged with offences that carry heavy fines and you may be deemed 'not fit and proper' and have your licence cancelled." With the changes set to impact Category A and B licence holders in particular, more than 80 per cent of the total registered firearms throughout the state which are registered against these licences are expected to be subject to the new storage requirements.

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