Multiple regression analyses were used to illustrate the use of firearms for suicide in Australia, changes occuring 1961-85, & highlighting at-risk subgroups. Between 1961-85, there was a 10% fall in male suicide & a somewhat greater fall in females. However it was also found that a greater proportion of suicides were committed using firearms. Suicides rates among older age groups fell, while rates for males under the age of 30 rose. Findings are compared with data from the U.S. (28 refs.)