Media statement: National Firearms Register

The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) provides mission critical intelligence to combat the threats Australia faces from transnational serious and organised crime. Our integrated view of crime is made possible through our connected systems and unique capabilities that we use to coordinate decision making with domestic and international partners.

On 1 July 2024, the National Firearms Register (NFR) Implementation Program commenced following National Cabinet agreement on 6 December 2023 and funding approval from the Commonwealth Government on 27 April 2024 – $161.3 million over 4 years.

The NFR will allow law enforcement to better assess firearms risks with near real-time information on firearms, linking data with other relevant police and government information. It will have the capability to deliver nationwide:

  • tracing of firearms and related articles across interstate and international borders 
  • sharing of information on firearms owners and licences
  • licence verification service for firearm dealers
  • alert and notification function for high-risk information or events
  • reporting and analysis functions to understand national firearms trends.

This will be a federated model that will enhance and adapt a number of existing systems, such as the Australian Firearms Information Network, and upgrade them to meet the needs and requirement of a national register. Acting as a central data hub, this uplift will be required across all state, territory, and Commonwealth agencies, for a successful integration. It will also significantly improve Australia’s capacity to detect and respond to illicit diversion of firearms.

However, it should be noted that the ACIC does not have the authority to enforce firearm legislation. This is a matter for states and territories, and relevant Commonwealth agencies. In line with the National Firearms Agreement: 

  • state and territory governments will remain responsible for all matters relating to licensing, possession, storage and use of firearms
  • the Commonwealth will remain responsible for matters relating to the import and export of firearms.

As an intelligence agency, we have considerable experience in managing highly sensitive national policing systems. The NFR will operate in accordance with established safeguards that govern access to and use of information in Australian policing information systems, to ensure the system is protected from data breaches. The register is for law enforcement and select government agencies only and will be not be accessible by the general public.

This will be the largest uplift of Australia’s firearms management systems in almost 30 years. All governments and jurisdictions are committed to completing this landmark program within 4 years, greatly improving community and police safety.