Tough new laws will give police the power they need to tackle gun crime in Sydney, NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell says.
In the past 10 months, there have been 61 shootings across Sydney, and since January 1 there have been 20.
'Certainly it's unacceptable that people anywhere, but particularly in west and southwestern Sydney, have to put up with what we've seen in recent times,' Mr O'Farrell told the ABC on Monday.
'Gun incidents aren't uncommon, regrettably.'
The new laws are designed to prevent criminals associating with one another, to increase jail terms for gang-related gun crime and to restrict ammunition sales.
'It's about putting in place powers, or tightening up those powers, that police believe are necessary to do their job,' Mr O'Farrell added.
The premier said there was a particular need to update the offence of consorting with known criminals, taking into account digital means of communication.
Penalties will also be increased for gangs involved in gun crime while gun owners will only be able to buy ammunition for weapons they are licensed to possess.
Mr O'Farrell did not immediately describe penalties proposed under the new laws, but he is expected to offer further details at a media conference on Monday morning.
News Ltd reported the offence of firing at a dwelling as part of an organised criminal activity would carry a maximum jail term of 16 years.
Directing the activities of a criminal enterprise planned or organised could see perpetrators behind bars for up to 15 years, it said.
Meanwhile, federal Justice Minister Jason Clare announced on Sunday the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) would begin a national intelligence assessment on the illegal firearms market.
The assessment will include tracing guns linked to the most recent shootings in western Sydney and Adelaide and provide a national picture of the black market and criminal gangs.
