Exemptions for farmers under new gun laws in NSW

PRIMARY producers across NSW will operate under tighter firearm regulations following new legislation.

The State Government emphasises that the reforms recognise the legitimate needs of farmers while strengthening community safety.

The Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 passed the NSW Parliament on Wednesday 24 December in response to the antisemitic terror attack at Bondi on 14 December 2025.

The legislation caps firearm ownership at four guns per individual, but provides an exemption for primary producers, allowing them to hold up to ten firearms for operational purposes such as pest management and stock protection.

It also limits access to straight-pull, pump-action and button or lever-release firearms to primary producers, reduces magazine capacity for category A and B firearms, and prohibits the use of belt-fed magazines.

Premier Chris Minns said the reforms reflected the gravity of recent events and the need for stronger protections.

“I acknowledge that these are very significant changes that not everyone will agree with, but our state has changed following the horrific antisemitic attack on Bondi Beach and our laws must change too,” Mr Minns said.

Attorney General Michael Daley said the measures formed part of a broader effort to protect communities and reduce the risk of violence.

“These measures form a strong regime to protect the community from those who would seek to do us harm and tear us apart,” Mr Daley said.

All firearms licence holders, including farmers, will now be required to maintain gun club membership.

Gun clubs must use the GunSafe online platform, and police will conduct mandatory safe storage inspections before issuing permits.

The changes will be supported by a comprehensive audit of existing firearms licences and a gun buyback scheme to be delivered in partnership with the Federal Government.