New South Wales will begin a two-phase gun buyback scheme on November 2, 2026, offering compensation for eligible handguns, shotguns, and rifles [1, 2, 3]. The program follows the December 2025 Bondi Beach mass shooting that killed 15 people during Hanukkah celebrations [1, 2, 3]. The shooter, Sajid Akram, was killed by police, and his son faces terrorism charges [2].
Eligible firearm owners can trade in guns that exceed the new state limits or hold invalid licenses. The new laws cap ownership at a maximum of four firearms per individual, though some exemptions allow up to 10 [1, 2, 3]. The buyback is jointly funded by the New South Wales state government and the federal government [1, 2, 3].
Compensation in the initial phase starting November 2 will range from A$450 for air rifles to A$1,000 for revolvers [1, 3]. A second phase in early 2027 will cover higher-value firearms with payments up to A$10,000 each [1, 3]. An estimated 274,000 firearms owned by roughly 50,000 license holders are affected by the new restrictions [3].
Businesses and gun dealers impacted by the regulations may receive support payments of up to A$25,000 to aid adjustment [1]. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said, "We want those guns handed in, compensated for and safely destroyed" and described the program as "a big undertaking" with a simple goal of reducing dangerous guns to make the state safer [1, 2].
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government must act to ensure "the antisemitic terrorist attack in Bondi doesn’t happen again," calling for meaningful nationwide gun reforms [1]. Although Australian authorities initially planned a nationwide buyback, delays and funding disputes have stalled efforts outside New South Wales [1, 3].
The first phase of the New South Wales gun buyback scheme will begin on November 2, followed by the second phase in early 2027.
