Arms Act re-write

Limiting access to lethal methods (or ‘means restriction’) is one of the most effective strategies for suicide prevention. This MHF submission endorses evidence-based multi-pronged approaches to effectively reducing suicide deaths by firearms, such as shorter licence periods, effective gun storage and inspection, and face-to-face in person vetting processes when applying for or renewing licences, including speaking to family members. Our submission maintains that primary legislation should not use mental illness as a proxy measure for risk, but instead be precise about the risk factors of concern (for example, currently or recently exhibiting behaviour and/or cognitive and/or physical functioning that might adversely affect a person’s ability to safely possess firearms). This approach would avoid discrimination on the basis of mental illness and make it clear that it is the behaviour and functioning, rather than the diagnosis, that is important to consider in permitting access to firearms.