New laws passed today will give ACT Policing an additional tool to disrupt organised crime and prevent firearm related violence.
The Firearms (Firearm Prohibition Orders) Amendment Bill 2026 establishes a Firearm Prohibition Order scheme in the ACT, commencing in 12 months' time, bringing the territory into line with other Australian jurisdictions while also including safeguards designed for the ACT's human rights framework.
The scheme allows the Magistrates Court to prohibit people who pose a serious public safety risk from accessing firearms, and gives ACT Policing targeted powers to enforce those orders.
A Firearm Prohibition Order prevents a person from:
- acquiring, possessing or using firearms or firearm-related items
- attending premises where firearms or firearm-related items may be located.
The Magistrates Court may make an order only where it is satisfied that doing so is in the public interest and reasonable and justifiable in all the circumstances.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, said she will work hard with ACT Policing to implement this scheme.
"These laws will help keep firearms out of the hands of people who pose a serious risk to our community, including people involved in organised crime, terrorism or serious domestic and family violence.
"A Firearm Prohibition Order will allow police to act before a firearm is used to cause harm, while judicial oversight and strong safeguards will ensure these powers are used fairly, transparently and proportionately.
"The scheme sends a clear message that the ACT will not provide a safe haven for illicit firearms or people seeking to use them for criminal activity."
The new laws will commence 12 months after notification, allowing time for ACT Policing, the ACT Ombudsman, the Magistrates Court and other agencies to prepare for implementation. The presented Bill specifies a 12-month delayed commencement.
The scheme will not affect Canberrans who lawfully own and use firearms and are not subject to a Firearm Prohibition Order.
Read further information about the ACT Government's firearm reforms.
Quotes attributable to Scott Lee, ACT Chief Police Officer
"Firearm Prohibition Orders will provide a mechanism for police to prevent individuals that pose a high risk to the community, whether it's through domestic and family violence, organised crime or terrorism-related criminality, from accessing firearms .
"The passing of these laws addresses a legislative gap in the ACT and assists police in removing firearms from people who pose a danger to the community."
