The Global Story - Why Australia’s gun laws aren’t as strong as you might think

This episode of The Global Story examines gun control in Australia following a recent mass shooting in Bondi Beach. Hosts Asma Khalid and Tristan Redman discuss the attack and interview Ariel Bogle, an investigations reporter with Guardian Australia, about the country's gun laws. Bogle explains how gun ownership is considered a privilege, not a right, and requires a "genuine reason." She recounts the 1996 Port Arthur massacre that led to significant gun control reforms and a national gun buyback program. While Australia has largely avoided mass shootings since then, Bogle notes that gun ownership is on the rise, and the recent Bondi shooting is prompting renewed discussions about further restrictions, with some pushback from rural communities and conservative voices who argue the focus should be on addressing extremism.