Now that the circumstances have come to light regarding the June 18 shootings in Melbourne, it is apparent that the tragedy has, unsurprisingly, more to do with law and order issues rather than the current firearm ownership regulations for law-abiding citizens.
The SSAA supports the comments of Federal Justice Minister David Johnston, who has called for the states to redouble their efforts in addressing the firearms black market. He is correct in his statement that it is very, very difficult for a law-abiding citizen to obtain a handgun.
It should also be reiterated that recreational and sporting shooters should not become the targets of any further draconian legislation, due to the actions of those with criminal intent and a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and others in the community.
The SSAA has always encouraged our legislators and police to crack down on those that misuse firearms and urged action in reigning in the firearms black market, and we continue to do so.