Victorian coroner recommends mental health guarantee for gun owners

Coroner Simon McGregor says Victoria’s firearms licensing regime could be strengthened. (ABC News: Berge Breiland)

A coroner has called on the state government to require Victorians to provide medical evidence to prove their suitability to hold a gun licence.

At present firearms owners can self-report mental health issues in a system the coroner described as having the "hallmarks of a rubber-stamping process".

The Victorian government is set to adopt a range of recommendations made by a review into firearm laws prompted by the Bondi Beach terror attack.

A coroner has recommended Victorians applying for and renewing firearms licences must first "prove mental wellbeing".

Warning: This story contains details that some readers may find distressing.

The recommendation was made following an inquiry into the death of a gun owner, "AT", who failed to report an extensive history of mental health and substance use issues when renewing his gun licence.

When applying for or renewing a gun licence the owner must tick a box indicating whether they have been treated in the last five years for mental health, alcohol, or drug-related issues.

In his finding published today, Victorian Coroner Simon McGregor said AT's case demonstrated how self-reporting rules left decision-makers unable to adequately assess renewal applications.

"The system … unfortunately has the hallmarks of a 'rubber stamping' process, rather than a genuine vetting process around the use and control of dangerous equipment," he said.

Self-reporting rules leave decision-makers unable to adequately assess renewal applications, according to the coroner. (ABC News: Danielle Bonica)

According to the Coroners Prevention Unit, Victoria recorded 342 firearms deaths by suicide in the 10 years between 2016 and 2025.

At the time of AT's death, the 42-year-old owned two handguns, two rifles and one air rifle.

AT had been diagnosed with depression and adjustment disorder and had sought treatment for ketamine misuse.

In August 2021 he was admitted to hospital for mental health treatment.

AT did not self-report this history when submitting his firearm renewal applications.

Two months prior to his death in October 2024, AT was allegedly involved in an incident of family violence that resulted in a child protection investigation.

Judge McGregor recommended child protection practitioners be granted access to information on firearms licences because firearm ownership could increase the risk of family violence.

The Rapid Review of Victoria's Firearm Laws was commissioned by the state government after the B