Stricter gun laws considered in Vic

Strengthened gun laws in Victoria will target the state's black market and illegal weapon ownership by organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Under the proposed legislation, those found with three or more unlicensed guns in a 12-month period would be automatically regarded as gun traffickers, down from the current requirement of 10.

The reduced number is based on a suggestion from Victoria Police Association secretary Ron Iddles and is included in new legislation introduced to the Victorian parliament Tuesday.

Victoria Police Minister Wade Noonan says the government has worked closely with police to close gaps in the state's existing firearm laws.

"These new laws send a clear message that Victoria is cracking down on the illegal firearm market and organised crime," Mr Noonan said.

Also included in the new laws is a responsibility on those found with a firearm to prove the weapon does not belong to them, a reversal of the current onus of proof which puts the burden on police.

Mr Noonan is also seeking to introduce new offences, including the unlawful manufacture of a firearm which would carry a 10-year maximum prison sentence.

Anyone convicted for stealing a gun under the new laws would face up to 15 years in jail.