The Report April Editorial

SSAA Queensland Leads the Way 

SSAA Queensland has strengthened its international standing after attending the World Forum on Shooting Activities (WFSA) in late February, where the Australian Shooters Alliance (ASA) formally joined the association. 

This marks an important step forward. While we have been supporting our members to compete internally, SSAA Queensland is now also contributing to legislation internationally and has the backing of a large global organisation. 

SSAA Queensland Secretary Michelle Herschfield was the only Australian representative at the forum. She addressed the meeting and outlined the current legislative landscape in Queensland, highlighting the unique challenges faced in Australia compared to the rest of the world. 

Michelle noted that, unlike most countries, firearm laws in Australia are primarily regulated at the state level. “We think we have a rough time of it in Australia, but in Austria, for example, you must be 25 or older to obtain a licence. Much of Europe is more restrictive than we are, and Canada is currently undertaking a major review,” she said. 

Key topics at the forum included legislative pressures, environmental considerations and proposed restrictions on lead in Europe – all issues with potential implications for the shooting community at home and abroad. 

Back in Australia, SSAA Queensland continues to represent members at both state and federal levels. Earlier this year, we contributed to discussions surrounding the Fighting Antisemitism and Keeping Guns out of the Hands of Terrorists and Criminals Amendment Bill 2026. Throughout that discourse SSAA Queensland has solidified its seat at the table in discussions about the future of shooting sports. We engage with all sides of politics and continue to provide informed advice across the political spectrum. 

Queensland remains ‘open for business’ and continues to lead the way for shooting sports in Australia. 

Jeff Ross 
President 
SSAA Queensland