The Australian Recreation Union (ARU), a gun users’ group, has announced plans to campaign against Labor candidates in marginal New South Wales seats ahead of the 2027 state election. The group opposes the government’s firearm laws introduced after the antisemitic attack at Bondi in December.
Last week, the ARU sent an email to the electorate offices of 15 Labor backbenchers, including the seat of Premier Chris Minns (Kogarah) and Police Minister Yasmin Catley (Swansea). The email stated the union had recruited campaign managers across 17 “vulnerable” electorates and intended to support candidates and parties that oppose the reforms.
“This is not a personal attack on you,” wrote ARU director Tracy Gavan. “We understand that as a backbencher, you are not in a position to vote contrary to the party line. However, unfortunately, NSW Labor has taken an unjustified and evidence-free position against firearm owners.”
The NSW Liberal and National parties said they were unaware of the email to Labor MPs. Both parties confirmed introductory calls with the ARU following the gun law changes but have not accepted campaign support. The Nationals opposed the December legislation, while the Liberals, under leader Kellie Sloane, supported it but later indicated a need to revisit the reforms.
The gun laws, rushed through parliament on 24 December, limit recreational firearms to four per person and ten for commercial uses. Police Minister Catley said the government “won’t back down to threats” and that the reforms aim to protect the community after Australia’s deadliest terrorist attack. The ARU said its campaigning will “fully comply with electoral laws in NSW”.
