The article discusses political tensions in New South Wales surrounding proposed gun legislation linked to the Shooters Party. While statutory rights in NSW are rare and reserved for fundamental values, the Liberal leader Mark Speakman accused the Labor government of engaging in political horse-trading by trading gun law changes for support on unrelated workers’ compensation legislation. This move has drawn criticism from within the Coalition, with some MPs calling the policy disgraceful and expressing concerns that it undermines established gun laws introduced after the Port Arthur massacre.

Despite some opposition members expressing broad support for the bill, including recognition of hunting as part of Australian culture, there remains uncertainty within the Nationals about their final stance pending an inquiry report. Labor denies any intention to weaken gun laws, instead blaming the Nationals for proposing to water them down. The controversy highlights deep divisions and strategic maneuvering within NSW politics, with gun law reforms becoming a contentious bargaining chip in broader legislative negotiations.