I've always admired Australia's easy going culture and I hope it has survived this but I'm not sure. I would hate to see that die.
Do you think that your country disarming its citizens after 1996 has enabled them to so harshly repress you? Is it politically feasible to restore your rights to self defense?
It certainly didn't help, but it's been 25 years since then and culturally we have a very anti-gun mindset.
This isn't so much about physical repression as it is cultural and psychological repression. Many people here seem to be exhibiting traits more like Stockholm Syndrome where they love their oppressor(s) who "keep them safe" and they are willing to give up whatever they need to if it means they can be safe.
Our easy going culture and lack of turbulent history has made us lambs for the slaughter. Quite simply, as a people, we don't seem to know any better.