New South Wales police were called to the scene after reports that a car had crashed into a tree, with the driver appearing unconscious. Officers had been informed that the man had a firearm in the vehicle, according to Assistant Commissioner Stephen Hegarty.
"They received information that he took up a firearm in the car and that he was also in the car, not responding to members of the public. That's why they obviously contacted the police," Hegarty said.
When officers approached the vehicle to check on the driver's welfare, Hegarty said the man did not respond to attempts to communicate. He then picked up the firearm and pointed it "directly at the police officer".
"At that point, I can confirm that police opened fire and he was struck at a number of rounds," Hegarty said. Police confirmed the rifle was loaded.
Paramedics were present at the scene. Police and paramedics attempted first aid, but the man died at the scene. He has not been formally identified but is believed to be aged 45, was known to police, and had previously been charged with firearm offences, Hegarty said.
A crime scene has been established and an investigation has begun. The investigation will be reviewed independently by the professional standards command, overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.