March 31, 2020
Licensed armourers and licensed dealers will now be able to provide essential services to primary producers and other industries which rely on weapons to do their jobs.
The latest direction from the Chief Health Officer in Queensland said licensed armourers and dealers may store, modify, repair, acquire or supply weapons and ammunition to specific groups.
Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said the direction provides clarity and certainty for those industries and individuals who needed licensed armourers and licensed dealers to carry out their work.
“This is a sensible decision which will allow our agriculture sector to get on with the job of feeding Queenslanders,” the Minister said.
“To do that, our primary producers need access to firearms to properly manage pests on their properties.”
The direction allows licensed armourers and licensed dealers to provide weapons and ammunition to:
- Commercial pest controllers or feral animal controllers,
- Vets,
- Shark control contractors, and
- A number of other State and Federal bodies.
The Minister said the government received strong representation from primary producers and other groups on this issue and this latest direction provides a sensible, workable and practical solution.
“Our primary producers are playing an essential role as we battle against COVID-19 and these latest measures will make it easier for them to do their jobs,” he said.
“As Queenslanders, we have to work together to tackle this unprecedented challenge to our community, so when we come out the other side we are stronger and more united than ever before.”
The relaxation of the previous prohibition follows lobbying by the LNP Opposition.
Earlier, Shadow Police Minister Trevor Watts said Labor’s knee-jerk decision to close weapons armourers and dealers would have significant consequences on the Queenslanders who rely on these services.
“Farmers are needed now more than ever to produce food and fibre and they rely on firearms in the management of their land,” Mr Watts said
“The LNP is calling on the Palaszczuk Labor Government to overturn the decision immediately and work with the industry to put measures in place that can keep these businesses open but maintain social distancing.”
