Gun owner candidate says signage rules make him a target

Independent candidates running for local government elections in Tasmania are raising concerns over a law requiring them to include their residential address on signage and leaflets. Phil Bigg, a prominent firearms advocate and the chair of an electoral matters committee, fears that this rule could put his home at risk of gun theft. Bigg argues that the requirement to disclose his address while advocating for stronger punishments against gun crime is an "idiotic idea" and a "disaster waiting to happen."

Emma Goyne, a member of the Clarence City Council and an elected official, shares Bigg's concerns as a domestic violence survivor. She believes that requiring candidates to disclose their home address is "quite concerning," especially for women and mothers. Goyne proposes that candidates should be allowed to list an email address, phone number, or PO box instead of their home address.

Mick Tucker, president of the Local Government Association of Tasmania and mayor of the Break O-Day council, agrees that the concerns raised by Bigg and Goyne are "extremely valid." However, Tucker notes that updating the law before the upcoming council elections in October is "unlikely" as the bill is not expected to be updated in time. He suggests that candidates should use a work address or another contactable address for their election materials.

Independent MLC Meg Webb, who chairs the joint standing committee on electoral matters, also highlights the validity of the concerns and suggests that updating the legislation could be "tricky" to achieve before the elections. The government maintains that the requirements for advertising authorisation reflect state and federal electoral acts, ensuring consistency across all levels of government.