Gun Control – What Australia Got Right (and Wrong)

A critical analysis of Australia's National Firearms Agreement and its impact on gun control.

In the aftermath of the Port Arthur massacre, Prime Minister John Howard swiftly transformed Australia’s firearm laws. Gun Control analyzes whether the Australian Government achieved its intention and what it might have done in response to the massacre, and didn’t. It examines the decisions made in 1996 to deal with the Australian community’s fear of firearms and the possibility of another shooting spree in a public place. This book considers the reality of community fears of lax firearm regulation, the reasonable expectation that people are protected from harm but also the entitlement of citizens to conduct their business and enjoy their recreation free from unnecessary government interference.

• Examines the history of gun control in Australia
• Analyzes the impact of the National Firearms Agreement
• Explores the political and social consequences of gun control policies

For scholars, policymakers, and general readers interested in Australian politics and social issues.

Tom Frame has been a naval officer, Anglican Bishop to the Defence Force, a member of the Australian War Memorial Council, a theological college principal and a cattle farmer. He is a graduate of UNSW with an Honours degree and a doctorate in history. He became Professor of History at UNSW Canberra in July 2014 and was appointed Director of the Public Leadership Research Group in July 2017 with responsibility for the establishment of the Howard Library at Old Parliament House. He is the author or editor of more than 45 books, including two volumes of critical essays on the Howard Government.