PARLIAMENT UPDATE 29 OCTOBER 2026
Firearms Inquiry Dates Announced, Registry Under Fire and Regional NSW Speaking Up
It's been another busy sitting week in Parliament, with Robert Borsak and Mark Banasiak keeping firearms owners, hunters, farmers and regional communities firmly on the agenda. We've secured an important opportunity for parliamentary scrutiny of the firearms reforms, challenged the Government over the Firearms Registry and raised concerns about public land access and property rights. Here's what happened and, importantly, how you can get involved.
Firearms Repeal Inquiry: Come Along and Have Your Say
Mark successfully secured a parliamentary inquiry into the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Reforms Repeal) Bill 2026 through the Selection of Bills Committee. Robert will chair the inquiry through Portfolio Committee No. 5, with Mark also participating. The inquiry will examine the legislation through public hearings and written submissions, with its final report due on 15 February 2027.
The hearings are an opportunity for firearms owners, dealers, farmers and other interested members of the public to follow the evidence and see the committee's work firsthand. We encourage anyone interested in the reforms to check the hearing arrangements and consider attending a session near them. Public submissions are also open until 1 February 2027.
Public hearing dates:
- 13 November 2026: Sydney, Parliament House
- 24 November 2026: Dubbo
- 1 December 2026: Singleton
- 7 December 2026: Sydney, Parliament House
- January 2027: Griffith, date to be confirmed
- February 2027: Sydney, final hearing, date to be confirmed
Please check the Parliament website for confirmed venues, times and public attendance arrangements before travelling.
View hearing details and make a submission here:
Watch Mark's parliamentary contribution here:
https://youtube.com/shorts/79XVZb_AQAY?feature=share
Help us get the word out to shooters across NSW.
Many shooters are still unaware that this important inquiry is underway. Your donation will help us raise awareness, reach more people across NSW and make sure they know how to have their say.
Firearms Registry: Five Words, Still No Answers
Mark asked the Police Minister for actual permit processing times and firm deadlines following the Registry's system upgrades. The entire written response was “System enhancements have now been delivered.” Mark's reaction said it all: “I have seen a more detailed answer on the back of a cereal box.” Farmers, pest controllers, dealers and lawful firearms owners need to know when permits will be processed, not simply whether software work has been completed.
Watch Mark's speech here:
Over 15,500 Signatures Demanding Action
Mark presented two important petitions to Parliament, representing 15,524 signatures from concerned NSW residents. The first, with 14,960 signatures, demanded a parliamentary inquiry into the Firearms Registry and its ongoing failures. The second, with 564 signatures, opposed the reclassification of 55 South Coast State forests, fighting to protect public access, camping and recreational freedoms. Both petitions send a clear message that firearms owners and outdoor enthusiasts want accountability and their rights protected.
See the petitions presented here:
Twenty Years of Hunters Making a Difference
Robert marked 20 years of regulated public land hunting in NSW, recognising the work hunters do controlling feral animals, helping landholders and supporting regional businesses. His motion highlighted research estimating around $500 million in annual recreational hunting expenditure and called for greater recognition of responsible hunting on both public and private land.
Watch Robert's contribution here:
Farmers Shouldn't Pay for Government Mapping Mistakes
Robert raised concerns about the Government's Native Vegetation Regulatory Map, following reports of incorrect grassland classifications and disputes that could take up to two years to resolve. His motion called for an independent review, faster corrections and protections for farmers carrying out legitimate weed control and property maintenance. Landholders need accurate information and workable rules to manage their properties.
See Robert's motion here:
New England REZ: No Updated Business Case
Mark questioned the Energy Minister about the New England Renewable Energy Zone after two proposed wind farms were abandoned. Asked whether the Government would update its business case, the Minister's answer was “no.” Mark also challenged the timing of community information sessions immediately before submissions closed on a 16,000 page environmental impact statement. “That is the Government's idea of listening,” he said, calling for communities to be given more time.
Watch Mark question the Minister here:
Backing Our Kangaroo Industry
Robert used World Kangaroo Day to recognise the role of sustainable commercial harvesting in regional employment, farm management and Australian manufacturing. His motion called for stronger support for kangaroo meat and leather markets, Aboriginal participation and science based wildlife management, while challenging misleading claims about the regulated industry.
Watch Robert's contribution here:
Wildlife Conservation Can Be Introduced Species Too
Robert highlighted research suggesting that Australian populations of introduced animals, including banteng, hog deer and sambar deer, may have international conservation significance. His motion called for wildlife policies that consider both environmental impacts and the conservation status of species overseas, while recognising the role responsible hunters can play in wildlife management.
View Robert's motion here:
Anzac Rifle Range: Were Police Following the Rules?
Robert Borsak questioned whether NSW Police complied with all operating and safety procedures during a shooting exercise at the Anzac Rifle Range on 21 September. Minister Moriarty couldn't confirm compliance and took the question on notice. Robert is now awaiting a formal response from the Police Minister Yasmin Catley.
Watch Robert's question here:
Recognising a Lifetime of Martial Arts Achievement
Robert recognised Paul Starling's more than six decades of service to Australian karate. From representing Australia internationally to teaching thousands of students and mentoring future champions, Paul's achievements reflect a remarkable commitment to martial arts, education and community service.
Watch Robert's tribute here:
As we head towards the March 2027 NSW election, we'll keep bringing you the parliamentary work affecting firearms owners, hunters, fishers, farmers and regional communities. Please take a look at the firearms inquiry hearing dates, consider attending a session or making a submission, and share the details with anyone who may be interested. Staying informed and getting involved are important ways to make sure regional voices are heard.
