The South Australian government has announced a pause in its participation in a national firearm buyback scheme, citing unresolved questions over federal funding. The state's Police Minister confirmed the decision, stating that South Australia will not proceed until the Commonwealth provides clarity on financial support for the program.
The national buyback initiative, announced by the federal government earlier this year, aims to reduce the number of certain lever-action shotguns and other firearms in the community. The scheme is voluntary and offers compensation to licensed firearm owners who surrender their eligible weapons.
Other states and territories have begun implementing the scheme, but South Australia's hesitation highlights ongoing tensions between state and federal governments over the cost and administration of national gun control measures. The state government has not provided a timeline for when it might join the program, pending further negotiations.
