Suppressing suppressors: Australia's prohibition of sound moderation in firearms
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publisher
Australian and New Zealand Marketing Academy Conference
School
School of Business and Law
RAS ID
22413
Abstract
This paper compares the status of firearm suppressors in Australia and New Zealand. In Australia suppressors are tightly restricted in all States while in New Zealand they are available to the public without regulatory control. The results of NSW Government commissioned research list the advantages and disadvantages of de-criminalising what is undeniably a contentious product. The report lists the benefits; including hearing-loss prevention and reduced noise pollution. The disadvantages of suppressor use include the potential for criminal misuse and the public perception of criminality associated with the product. The 2011 report concluded no obvious correlation between suppressors and criminal activity in other permissive societies however there appears to be little change in Australia since the report was tabled in Parliament. While it is not the intention of the authors to advocate for change in either country the stark contrast in regulatory control given the similarity of cultures and provenance is noteworthy.
Access Rights
metadata only record
Comments
MacCarthy, M., O'Neill M., & Willson, G. (2016). Suppressing suppressors: Australia's prohibition of sound moderation in firearms. In proceedings of the Australian and New Zealand Marketing Academy Conference. (pp. 106-112) Christchurch, Australia.