The blunder was described by Sporting Shooters Association of Australia WA president Paul Fitzgerald as a “breach of trust”.
“We have been inundated with members who are deeply concerned about the breach of their privacy and the potential ramifications of identifying where licensed firearm owners live in our community,” he said.
“The release of the location data shows a blatant disregard for the sporting and recreational shooting community and has caused significant distress for responsible gun owners who have been unfairly targeted.
“Recreational shooters are sportspeople and conservationists who are passionate about firearm safety,and we are avid campaigners against gun violence.
“We expect an apology from the Minister for Police for the breach of trust and a clear undertaking that law-abiding and responsible firearm owners will not be collateral damage of their reform agenda.”
One firearm owner who lives in a small country town that was identifiable on one of the maps said his town only had a few homes and he was concerned someone could attempt to steal his pistol.
He said he was considering moving his safe because of the debacle.