Arms dealer jailed after Bondi shooting changed his view on harm
Michael Franklin, 44, was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison. He supplied fully automatic machine guns and MDMA in the Illawarra.
Franklin was arrested in March 2025 and supplied a semi-automatic rifle, three fully automatic sub-machine guns with silencers, and 702.8 grams of MDMA tablets. Franklin told Wollongong District Court about the Bondi shooting on December 14, 2025, which killed 15 people and injured 40.
Franklin said it finally made him understand the harm he had caused. Judge William Fitzsimmons said it was unfortunate Franklin only recognised this harm after the tragedy.
The operation involved a 3D printer that could make firearm changes. It also used coded sales messages.
Franklin's non-parole period is four years and four months. Franklin will be eligible for parole in July 2029.
The judge noted that Franklin's family support significantly helped his rehabilitation.
- March 2025
- Arrest date
- 15 killed, 40 injured on December 14, 2025
- Bondi shooting toll
Why it mattersIt shows how illegal firearms reach criminal networks. It illustrates the real-world consequences of illegal weapons supply.
AustraliaIllawarra-based operation; South Australian criminal justice; part of broader firearms regulation concerns in Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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