Australia news live: farmers groups push back against ‘rushed’ Minns gun reforms; Coalition proposes terms of reference for antisemitism royal commission

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NSW Farmers says the Minns government’s “rushed” new gun laws were “unworkable” and that farmers had been “misled” by the state government.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin the government had not spoken to the organisation despite “multiple attempts” over the past week and he was “deeply frustrated that the government has failed to engage in any meaningful way in what is a critical issue for farmers”.

Farmers have been misled by the NSW Government. It’s incredible this government has allowed generous capping exemptions for recreational shooters but for farmers who need firearms to control pests, minimise biosecurity risks and for the humane management of animals, the government hasn’t given us a second’s thought.

The Premier acknowledged farmers and agriculture had unique requirements when it came to firearms but these reforms have been put together in such a rush, the government hasn’t even turned its attention to the unintended consequences and anomalies.

NSW Farmers does not support unworkable rules on firearms for farmers and those working in agriculture, and we will continue to make representations on behalf of our sector.

Its proposed terms of reference include “the nature, prevalence and drivers of anti-Semitism in Australia leading up to the Bondi Beach attack … including anti-Semitism based on race, religion and attitudes towards, or conduct relating to, the state of Israel”.

Pro-Palestinian activists have frequently sought to separate their criticism of Israel for its offensive in Gaza following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks from any anti-Semitic activity that targets Jews.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

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