This blog is in reference to a recent media statement which has incorrectly suggested that children have access to firearms.
The following link is to the article in question;
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-27/teenager-caught-with-handgun-at-perth-school/6731112
The item used in the most recent occurrence of disturbing behaviour by school children was not a firearm and not subject to the Western Australian Firearms Act 1973 (“the Act”). Describing the item in question as a ‘gun’ is incorrect. It is not a firearm under any definition within the Act.
Not questioning the Education Department regional executive, Margaret Collins, on her assessment of the issue as being “of great concern that children could access guns in their community” was a failure on behalf of the reporter, Briana Shepherd.
Whilst I am relieved that there was no sinister intent in either of the recent events involving school kids taking firearms or replica firearms to school, I would point out that the first instance involved an unlicensed (therefore illegal) firearm that was outside the regulated system of firearm ownership. In the second instance, no offense was committed as the item was not a firearm and not subject to the Act.
| The likelihood of a child acquiring a licensed firearm and taking that firearm to school to show their friends remains extremely unlikely. The license restrictions on handgun owners ensures they are abundantly aware of their requirements under law to secure their firearms in approved firearm safes. In addition to this, the children of adults that actively partake in the sport of shooting (as all pistol shooters are by law) are much more likely to have received at least some education in firearm safety and that they are not items that should be taken to school. Stating that children have access to guns in the community as a result of a child taking a pretend gun to school is a gross demonstration the naivety of the general public toward firearm ownership. | g |  |
I see both of these events as a manifestation of a larger problem within the community, which is a lack of knowledge and understanding within the general public surrounding firearms and firearm law.
In the case of a firearm being taken to school, I can understand the naivety of children being central to the issue itself. This is largely bought about by the fact that firearms and responsible firearm ownership are never discussed in any informative way. In all likelihood, the only information most people have ever received is through the media, which is inevitably of a sinister or violent nature. I believe this constant misrepresentation of firearms leads to a distorted view that, for most children, makes guns an object of curiosity and excitement.
I firmly believe that the best way to prevent similar instances occurring in the future is through education.
I have long advocated that a basic understanding of firearms law and the responsibilities of firearm ownership should be taught in schools. Children are educated in all manner of subjects, such as sex education and responsible alcohol consumption. Consequently, I believe it would be a sensible advance in education that the basic principles of firearms law should be included in the curriculum.
Zaine Beaton
Manager
Beaton Firearms
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