Minns backtracks on right to hunt over fears it could lead to US-style gun future

NSW premier initially supported the controversial bill which would have allowed recreational hunters to shoot feral animals on public lands

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The New South Wales premier has backtracked on a central element of a Shooters and Fishers’ private member’s bill – enshrining a right to hunt – saying it could undermine gun control and send the state down the US path of a right to bear arms.

“We won’t be supporting any provision in [the bill] that will water down gun laws in NSW. They’ve been important pieces of keeping the community safe for a long period of time,” Chris Minns said.