Gun Control Australia took Premier Will Hodgman to court after a RTI request into the legal advice the government received regarding proposed gun law changes was denied. 

Premier Hodgman refused to reveal advice he received from former Police Minister Rene Hidding in 2018 regarding the Liberal party’s proposed changes to firearms laws in Tasmania as he did not consider this information to be in the public interest. 

The proposed changes to license periods and age restrictions were revealed on the night before the March election last year. 

GCA spokesman Roland Browne said the Supreme Court ruled the premier has to comply with the RTI act. 

“GCA are pleased with the decision because we believe the premier got it wrong,” Mr Browne said. 

“The case arose from the police minister’s proposal issued last year to water-down gun laws”

“We look forward to the premier making a decision in accordance with the law.”

Mr Hodgman said the outcome of the court proceedings will be observed. 

“We will review it and take appropriate action,” Mr Hodgman said. 

“RTI processes are handled independently of politicians so it’s not for me to direct what should or shouldn’t be released, it’s for process to be followed.

“Where we need to review this process, including following a court determination, we will do so.”