In March 2022, the WA Government appointed WA Police to undertake a significant overhaul of firearms laws in WA. The new legislation commencing 31 March introduces more stringent requirements aimed at enhancing and supporting public safety.
This includes the introduction of mandatory Fire Arms Authority Health Assessment (FAHA), undertaken by a medical practitioner (GP) for all new Firearm Licence applicants, and existing licence holders, repeated at least every five years (annually for those aged 80 years of age and older).
To manage demand on general practice, notification of FAHAs for existing firearm authority holders will be staggered over the next first five years.
What does this mean for GPs?
- GPs are not decision-makers in relation to the grant of a firearm authority.
- GPs are not obligated to conduct a FAHA. Patients can be on-referred to alternative providers.
- A FAHA is only one component of the overall assessment of an individual.
- FAHA appointments are not covered by Medicare, therefore the fee is to be determined by the medical practice.
- GPs are protected from any criminal, civil or disciplinary action (s) for reports made in good faith under:
- Section 220 of the Health Services Act 2016
- Section 577 of the Mental Health Act 2014
- Section 378(1) of the Firearms Act 2024
- WA Health Department Policy MP0015/16
See the Information Sheet for Health Practitioners and FAHA Guidance notes for more information.
RACGP WA is hosting a webinar Wednesday 26 March to provide an overview of the new legislation and reforms and practical considerations for GPs providing mandatory FAHAs. Find out more and register