A national firearms register is a step closer to reality with Australians being asked to give feedback on the plan.

Public consultation opened on Monday following a meeting which included Australia’s police ministers. 

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said the nation’s first register was nearing reality.

The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission will provide advice on costed options for a register for national cabinet by mid 2023.

The ministers agreed to publicly consult on the proposed register, and to meet again in June to discuss options ahead of the national cabinet meeting.

The statement says a “key outcome of the national firearms register should be improved police and community safety”.

The ministers paid tribute to the slain police constables Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold, who along with Alan Darewho were shot dead at Wieambilla, Queensland, in December.

Mr Dreyfus said Australia already had some of the world’s strongest gun laws but there was room for improvement.

“The Albanese government is committed to working closely with jurisdictions on this initiative, which is vital to preserve the safety of the community and police,” he said.

“A national firearms register will ensure police across all Australian jurisdictions have timely and accurate information to assess any firearms risk posed and protect the community from harm.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was a necessary measure after state and territory leaders were briefed by Australia’s top spy about the rise of right-wing extremism and so-called “sovereign citizens”.

Public consultation closes on April 25.

By Dominic Giannini in Canberra