Western NSW gun shops face closures following new firearm laws

Firearm retailers in Western New South Wales are facing significant economic hardship following the introduction of new firearm laws. Owners of Richo's Guns N Ammo in Dubbo, Kate and John Richardson, report that their business has decreased by 80 per cent due to legislative changes implemented after the December 2025 Bondi attack.

The new regulations include reducing license durations from five years to two years and imposing a limit of four firearms under general licenses. These changes have led to staff layoffs and a reduction in the turnover of firearms, ammunition, and accessories. Business owners expressed concern that a lack of communication from the government could lead to several regional gun shops closing by Christmas.

Under the proposed phase-one compensation plan commencing in November 2026, certain firearms such as revolver handguns and centrefire rifles would qualify for up to $1,000 in compensation, while semi-automatic handguns and double-barrel shotguns would qualify for $850.