Victorian Police Minister response to Victorian gun laws
by Hon Bill McGrath MLA
Minister for Police and Emergency Services
23 July 1997
Dr Robert Dean MLA
Parliamentary Secretary to the Department of Justice
55 St Andrews Place
Melbourne Vic 3002
Dear Dr Robert
CORRESPONDENCE FROM (name deleted)
Thank you for requesting my advice on (name deleted) letter of 15 June 1997 regarding his concerns about the new Victorian Firearms laws.
The new Victorian Firearms laws, the Firearms Act 1996 and the Firearms Regulations 1997, commenced operation on 29 April 1997. The new laws reflect the requirements of the national firearms agreement of May 1996.
The new laws represent a significant change both for Victoria's firearms owners and for Victoria Police. The new laws inevitably pose some challenges to existing practices and procedures. It will be important in this transitional period that both Victoria Police and firearms owners adopt a positive and constructive attitude towards the new laws. I have written to the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police indicating my belief that the implementation approach will need to include effective communication with firearms owners.
Given the signifcant changes occurring under the new firearm laws, the process of putting new legislation into operation may reveal specific practical issues requiring further legislative action by the Government. The implementation process will provide a basis for the consideration of any further changes to the legislation. The view of firearms interest groups, including concerned individuals such as Dr Lawson, will be taken into account in any future review excercise.
Yours sincerely
(signed)
BILL MCGRATH
Minister for Police and Emergency Services
Copy held SSAA National
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