The Federal Government this month again failed to introduce mandatory sentencing for firearm traffickers. The proposed changes to the Criminal Code Amendment (Firearm Trafficking) Bill would apply to trafficking 50 or more firearms or firearms parts in a six-month period.
Mandatory minimum sentences of five years were proposed for firearm traffickers, along with a maximum penalty of life in jail – the same as the maximum penalty for drugs trafficking.
However, the introduction of mandatory sentencing was rejected by Labor, the Greens and crossbenchers. Labor justice spokeswoman Clare O’Neil said that mandatory minimum sentences “don’t work”. Senator Leyonhjelm said he was unaware of one case where current maximum penalties were applied. He believes in enforcing the current laws, rather than making laws for the sake it.
However, Attorney-General George Brandis said removing mandatory minimums weakened the legislation.
It was the third time the Federal Government had proposed mandatory minimum sentences for firearm trafficking. Twice before it called for minimum sentences of five years but it was rejected on both occasions.
Thirty changes were made to the bill, including the removal of mandatory sentences, before it was supported. The Senate created new aggravated offences for firearms trafficking 50 or more firearms or firearm parts in a six-month period, attracting penalties of 30 years’ jail or life for the worst offenders.
One Nation and the Liberal Democrats still refused to support the legislation.
