WA Government Extends Gun Amnesty, Announces New Buyback Scheme

Police Minister Reece Whitby apologizes to firearm owners and pledges collaboration as new laws banning rapid-release firearms take effect.

New gun laws in Western Australia, effective March 31, 2025, ban rapid-release firearms and empower police to remove guns from violent offenders.
A new buyback program will run from April 14, 2025, to January 14, 2026, offering financial compensation for surrendered firearms.
The amnesty for rapid-release firearms has been extended to April 14, 2025, allowing owners to surrender these weapons without legal consequences.
Police Minister Reece Whitby has apologized to gun owners for the inconvenience caused by the reforms and pledged to engage with stakeholders, signaling a shift from the previous administration's stricter tone.
Police estimate that most of the 4,000 rapid-release firearms in the state have already been surrendered, with authorities setting up a dedicated call center to assist gun owners.