Firearms—Owner health checks
530. Hon Dr Steve Thomas to the minister representing the Minister for Police:
I refer to my question without notice 97 of 30 April 2025 seeking clarification on the decision-making process in the granting or refusal of an applicant's submission for a gun licence.
(1) Aside from the Commissioner of Police, who is deemed an approved delegate in the decision-making process?
(2) What skill set or qualifications are inherently required for appointment as an approved delegate?
(3) Who appoints an approved delegate, what is the process of appointment and is there a timeframe apportioned to the term of appointment?
(4) As at 16 August 2025, how many approved delegates have been appointed to this critical decision-making role, and who are they?
Hon Matthew Swinbourn replied:
I thank the member for some notice of the question. The following answer has been provided to me by the Minister for Police.
(1)–(2) Sworn police officers who hold the rank of sergeant or above attached to the firearms licensing enforcement division of the Western Australia Police Force.
(3)–(4) The Commissioner of Police appoints delegates via a signed instrument of delegation as per section 16 of the Firearms Act 2024. This delegation remains current until revoked by the Commissioner of Police. Due to operational sensitivities, the information relating to those officers will not be disclosed.
