Police Commissioner Insists Firearm Licensing Authority Must Remain His

Allister Guevarro, Commissioner of Police, has emphasized the importance of keeping the authority to grant Firearm Users’ Licences (FULs) with the Commissioner’s office. He warns that shifting this responsibility could lead to chaos and inefficiencies. The comment comes after calls to revise the current licensing framework following the passing of the Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill 2025. Guevarro notes the challenges in the licensing process and the need to consider the ‘human realities’ of placing lethal weapons in individuals’ hands. In the past, attempts to interfere with this responsibility resulted in chaos, added bureaucracy, and repeated audits. He also highlighted the importance of background checks and police Certificates of Character (CoCs) as ‘indispensable safeguards’. Despite acknowledging the need for an overhaul of the CoC department, Guevarro expressed his confidence that a modernised system can deliver efficiency, transparency, and accountability.