Australia Sets November Gun Buyback After Bondi Hanukkah Terror Attack
Australia announced a nationwide gun buyback program that will launch November 2, 2026, with New South Wales the first state to participate as part of measures to reduce firearms after the Bondi Beach terror attack.[1]
The government said the first phase will pay owners $450 to $1,000 for standard firearms, while a second phase allows valuations up to $10,000 for certain higher-value weapons.[1] New South Wales will generally cap individuals at four firearms under the new rules.[1]
On December 14, 2025, a shooter opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach in Sydney, killing 15 people with legally obtained firearms, a tragedy that prompted the government push for the buyback.[1] Officials framed the program as a key element of "sensible gun reform" aimed at tightening ownership and reclassifying weapons.[1]
Authorities estimate the new limits and reclassifications affect up to 274,000 registered guns and about 50,000 license holders in New South Wales.[1] Australia reports a record 4.1 million firearms nationwide, including more than 1.1 million in New South Wales.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Sunday, August 16, 2026, Australia announced a gun buyback program starting November 2, 2026, with New South Wales as the first state to participate.
- The buyback follows a December 14, 2025 shooting at a Bondi Beach Hanukkah celebration in Sydney that killed 15 people using legally obtained firearms.
- Compensation will range from $450 to $1,000 per standard firearm in phase one, with a second phase allowing valuations up to $10,000 per gun for certain higher-value weapons.
- New South Wales now generally limits individuals to four firearms and estimates that up to 274,000 registered guns and about 50,000 license holders are affected by the new limits and reclassifications.
- Australia reports a record 4.1 million firearms nationwide, including more than 1.1 million in New South Wales.
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