Police are set to receive strengthened powers to fight firearm violence and crime with the Firearm Amendment Bill 2019 being debated – and set to the passed - in Parliament today.
The bill which was recently examined through the Economic Policy Scrutiny Committee - will see the introduction of Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPOs), and increased maximum penalties for a range of firearm offences.
A FPO scheme would prohibit certain individuals – based on police intelligence, prior criminal history, behaviour or known associates - from possessing or being in the company of someone who is possessing a firearm and other firearm related items for 10 years.
It will allow for police to search persons, premises or possessions without a warrant, to ensure that an individual subject to an FPO is compliant with their order.
The legislation has been successfully used in other states to effectively disrupt and dismantle criminal organisations, including outlaw motorcycle gangs.
As stated by Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Nicole Manison:
"The Territory Labor Government is giving our police stronger powers to fight firearm violence and crime.
"This legislation – which will bring the Territory in line with laws in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania - will make it harder for the wrong people to obtain firearms, and will see those that do, face harsher penalties.
"This has helped tackle crime interstate and will work here too."
