Strengthening gun laws to keep Tasmanians safe will be on the agenda at the first meeting of the Firearms Consultative Committee today, with Tasmania still to commit to national gun reforms in the wake of the Bondi Beach tragedy.
The Alannah & Madeline Foundation is calling on the Rockliff government to ensure Tasmania takes reasonable steps that seek to prevent future gun deaths – instead of following Queensland by ignoring National Cabinet and the national sentiment.
Australian Gun Safety Alliance convenor and Alannah & Madeline Foundation advocacy advisor Stephen Bendle, who has been appointed to the consultative committee, said:
“This consultation comes at a critical time for Australia, nearly 30 years after governments around the country came together to ensure gun safety reforms had bipartisan support. It is vital that our leaders stay strong and keep public safety as their number one priority, instead of bowing to the wishes of a well-funded gun lobby that wants to roll back gun reforms.
“We are eager to participate in this consultation and look forward to constructive discussions about the national efforts to strengthen gun laws. It would be a huge disappointment if the Tasmanian government turned its back on national reform as Queensland has done, and we offer our full support and cooperation to the Tasmanian government in the work to ensure Tasmanians can live without fear of guns in the community.
“Tasmanians know only too well the pain and trauma that gun violence inflicts on families and communities. As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Port Arthur tragedy, it would be heartbreaking to see Tasmania’s government turn its back on the legacy of that event and fail to take the necessary steps to keep Tasmanians safe.”
About us:
About the Alannah & Madeline Foundation
The Alannah & Madeline Foundation was founded 28 years ago by Walter Mikac AM, and a small group of volunteers in memory of Walter’s young daughters Alannah and Madeline, aged just six and three, who tragically lost their lives along with their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur in Tasmania on 28 April 1996. The Foundation was established with the belief that “all children and young people should be able to live a happy and safe life, free from violence and trauma.” Our mission continues today through our Care, Prevention and Advocacy programs – we fight for their right to be safe, so their future is strong. www.alannahandmadeline.org.au
About the Australian Gun Safety Alliance
The Australian Gun Safety Alliance is a broad coalition of voices representing the interests of the community to ensure we remain vigilant on gun safety. www.gunsafetyalliance.org.au
Contact details:
Lana Burton - Head of Marketing, Alannah & Madeline Foundation
0499 202 001 or [email protected]
