Firearms Regulation 2008 (ACT)
Firearms Regulation 2008
SL2008-55
made under the
Firearms Act 1996
Republication No 25
Effective: 15 May 2025
Republication date: 15 May 2025
Last amendment made by SL2024‑23
(republication for amendments by A2024‑11)
About this republication
The republished law
This is a republication of the Firearms Regulation 2008, made under the Firearms Act 1996 (including any amendment made under the Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 (Editorial changes)) as in force on 15 May 2025. It also includes any commencement, amendment, repeal or expiry affecting this republished law to 15 May 2025.
The legislation history and amendment history of the republished law are set out in endnotes 3 and 4.
Kinds of republications
The Parliamentary Counsel’s Office prepares 2 kinds of republications of ACT laws (see the ACT legislation register at type="disc">
authorised republications to which the Legislation Act 2001 applies
unauthorised republications.
The status of this republication appears on the bottom of each page.
Editorial changes
The Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 authorises the Parliamentary Counsel to make editorial amendments and other changes of a formal nature when preparing a law for republication. Editorial changes do not change the effect of the law, but have effect as if they had been made by an Act commencing on the republication date (see Legislation Act 2001, s 115 and s 117). The changes are made if the Parliamentary Counsel considers they are desirable to bring the law into line, or more closely into line, with current legislative drafting practice.
This republication includes amendments made under part 11.3 (see endnote 1).
Uncommenced provisions and amendments
If a provision of the republished law has not commenced, the symbol U appears immediately before the provision heading. Any uncommenced amendments that affect this republished law are accessible on the ACT legislation register ( For more information, see the home page for this law on the register.
Modifications
If a provision of the republished law is affected by a current modification, the symbol M appears immediately before the provision heading. The text of the modifying provision appears in the endnotes. For the legal status of modifications, see the Legislation Act 2001, section 95.
Penalties
At the republication date, the value of a penalty unit for an offence against this law is $160 for an individual and $810 for a corporation (see Legislation Act 2001, s 133).
Firearms Regulation 2008
made under the
Firearms Act 1996
Contents
Page
Part 1 Preliminary
1 Name of regulation 2
3 Dictionary 2
4 Notes 2
5Offences against regulation—application of Criminal Code etc 3
6 Not firearms—Act, s 6 (2) (a) 3
Part 2 Clubs
7 Meaning of target pistol shooter—pt 2 5
8 Shooting clubs, conditions of approval—Act, s 40 (5) 5
9 Shooting clubs, power to request information from registrar about target pistol shooters—Act, s 272 (2) (m) 7
10 Target pistol shooters to tell club about change of name or address—Act, s 272 (2) (m) 8
11 Collectors clubs, conditions of approval—Act, s 40 (5) 9
Part 3 Licensing—prohibited firearms and pistols
12 Prohibited pistols, sport or target shooting—Act, s 52 (3), (4) and sch 3, item 6, col 5 12
14 Category C licence, prohibited firearm used for sport or target shooting, offences—Act, s 272 (2) (o) 13
Part 4 Licensing—adult firearms
Division 4.1 Adult firearms licences—general
15 Adult licence applications, information and documents—Act, s 54 (2) (b) and (c) 14
16 Government agency responsible for vertebrate pest animal control—Act, s 61 25
16A Category C licences, genuine reasons—Act, s 64 (a) 25
16B Application of s 16A (b) and (c) to previously issued category C licences 25
17 Adult licences, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o) 26
18 Adult licences, evidence of special need for category D licences—Act, s 272 (2) (o) 27
19 Adult licences, period—Act, s 78 (1) (b) 27
Division 4.2 Adult firearms licences—conditions
20 Adult licence condition, category C or H licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 28
21 Adult licence conditions, category H licences for business—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 28
22 Adult licence conditions, category H licences for employment—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 29
23 Adult licence conditions, firearms collectors licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 29
24 Adult licence conditions, heirlooms licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 30
25 Dealer licence condition—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 30
26 Dealer licence condition, club armourers—Act, s 73 (1) (g) 30
27 Collector licence condition, making firearm incapable of being fired—Act, s 76 (a) 31
Part 5 Licensing—minors firearms
28 Minors firearms licences, minimum age—Act, s 85 (1) (a) 32
Part 6 Licensing—composite entities
Division 6.1 Composite entity licences—general
29 Composite entity licences, stated information and documents for applications—Act, s 272 (2) (o) 33
30 Composite entity, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o) 34
Division 6.2 Composite entity licences—conditions
31 Composite entity licence conditions—Act, s 116 (1) (h) 34
32 Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for business—Act, s 116 (1) (h) 35
33 Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for employment—Act, s 116 (1) (h) 35
Part 7 Licensing—international and interstate licences
34 Permit to acquire, conditions for foreign acquirers—Act, s 154 (c) 37
Part 8 Temporary recognition of other licences
35 Temporary recognition of interstate licences, for possession or use of firearm—Act, s 136 (1) (a) (ii) 38
36 Conditions of temporary recognition of interstate licences—Act, s 136 (3) 38
Part 9 Firearms dealers
37 Dealer licences, restrictions on issue—Act, s 272 (2) (e) 40
38 Dealer licences, required particulars for recording acquisitions and disposals—Act, s 194 (2) (e) 40
39 Licensed firearms dealers, additional requirements—Act, s 272 (2) (e) 41
40 Spare barrels, prescribed records when barrel sold—Act, s 194 (2) (e) 42
Part 10 Registration
41 Register of firearms, other particulars—Act, s 157 44
42 Registration of unregistered firearms, prescribed period—Act, s 177 (4) (b) 45
43 Registered firearms, required particulars when firearm acquired or sold—Act, s 178 (2) (b) 45
Part 11 Safe storage of firearms
Division 11.1 Security and safe storage
44 Safe storage requirements, category A and category B firearms and paintball markers—Act, s 181 (1) (c) 47
44A Storage of more than 10 category A or category B firearms—Act, s 180 (3) 47
45 Security and safe storage requirements, category D firearms—Act, s 182 (1) (c) 48
46 Storage of not more than 10 category A or category B firearms, collectors—Act, s 180 (3) 48
47 Storage of category C, category D and category H firearms, collectors—Act, s 180 (3) 49
47A Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for safe storage of firearms by security organisations—Act, s 182 (2) (a) and (c) 51
48 Storage of firearms, firearms dealers—Act, s 180 (3) 55
Division 11.2 Displays
49 Displaying firearms, reasonable steps in storing—Act, s 180 (3) 57
50 Permanent displays 57
51 Temporary displays 58
52 Wall displays—Act, s 180 (3) 59
Division 11.3 Transportation
52A Transportation of firearms, reasonable steps in storing—Act, s 180 (3) 60
Part 12 Offences
53 Restrictions on disposal of firearms—Act, s 226 (1) (c) 62
54 Safety requirements for transporting prohibited firearms or pistols—Act, s 234 62
55 Shortening firearms—Act, s 240 (2) 64
Part 13 Shooting ranges
56 Application for approval of shooting range 65
57 Decision about shooting range approval 66
58 Approved shooting ranges, period of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (k) 66
59 Shooting ranges, immediate suspension of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (k) 67
60 Shooting ranges, cancellation of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (k) 68
Part 14 Approved paintball ranges
61 Application for approval of approved paintball range 70
62 Decision about paintball range approval 71
63 Approved paintball ranges, period of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (l) 71
64 Approved paintball ranges, immediate suspension of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (k) 72
65 Approved paintball ranges, cancellation of approval—Act, s 272 (2) (l) 73
Part 15 Miscellaneous
66 Meaning of spare barrel 75
67 Sporting organisations—Act, s 23, sch 2, pt 2.3, items 2 and 3 75
67A Sporting (biathlon or modern pentathlon) organisations—Act, s 23, sch 2, pt 2.3, items 4 to 10 76
68 Minimum participation rates for members of approved clubs—Act, dict, def active, par (a) 76
69 Pistols, prescribed dimensions—Act, dict, def pistol, par (b) 77
70 Firearms, permits for theatrical and other productions—Act, s 141 (a) 78
71 Arms fairs, permits to conduct—Act, s 141 (a) 79
71A Firearms, permits for possession and display of mortar etc—Act, s 141 (a) 79
72 Firearms, permits for possession and use of tranquilliser firearms—Act, s 141 (a) 81
73 Firearms, permits for possession and use of powerheads—Act, s 141 (a) 81
73A Minimum dimensions for firearms—Act, sch 1, item 17 82
Part 16 Notification and review of decisions
74 Meaning of reviewable decision—pt 16 84
75 Reviewable decision notices 84
76 Applications for review 84
Schedule 1 Reviewable decisions 85
Dictionary86
Endnotes
1 About the endnotes 88
2 Abbreviation key 88
3 Legislation history 89
4 Amendment history 92
5 Earlier republications 96
Firearms Regulation 2008
made under the
Firearms Act 1996
Part 1Preliminary
Name of regulation
This regulation is the Firearms Regulation 2008.
Dictionary
The dictionary at the end of this regulation is part of this regulation.
Note 1The dictionary at the end of this regulation defines certain terms used in this regulation, and includes references (signpost definitions) to other terms defined elsewhere.
For example, the signpost definition ‘reserve—see the Nature Conservation Act 2014, section 169.’ means that the term ‘reserve’ is defined in that section and the definition applies to this regulation.
Note 2A definition in the dictionary (including a signpost definition) applies to the entire regulation unless the definition, or another provision of the regulation, provides otherwise or the contrary intention otherwise appears (see Legislation Act, s 155 and s 156 (1)).
Notes
A note included in this regulation is explanatory and is not part of this regulation.
NoteSee the Legislation Act, s 127 (1), (4) and (5) for the legal status of notes.
Offences against regulation—application of Criminal Code etc
Other legislation applies in relation to offences against this regulation.
Note 1Criminal Code
The Criminal Code, ch 2 applies to all offences against this regulation (see Code, pt 2.1).
The chapter sets out the general principles of criminal responsibility (including burdens of proof and general defences), and defines terms used for offences to which the Code applies (eg conduct, intention, recklessness and strict liability).
Note 2Penalty units
The Legislation Act, s 133 deals with the meaning of offence penalties that are expressed in penalty units.
Not firearms—Act, s 6 (2) (a)
(1)The following are not firearms:
(a)an antique firearm;
(b)a firearm (other than a percussion-fired pistol) manufactured before 1900 for which ammunition is not readily commercially available;
(c)an explosive-powered tool;
(d)a heavy bench-mounted rifle used for experimental purposes that is of a kind approved by the registrar;
(e)a tool designed to be used to split or break rock or concrete by the firing of an explosive cartridge;
Example
the tool known as the ‘Boulder Buster’
(f)an industrial tool designed to be used in the mining and steel industries to remove refractory material (such as slag) from kilns or for other similar purposes;
Example
the tool known as the ‘Slag Buster Kiln Gun’
(g)a captive bolt gun of the kind designed for use in an abattoir in the humane killing of livestock;
(h)a tool designed to discharge a nail, spike or other fastener into or through material by means of compressed air or carbon dioxide.
Example
nail gun
(2)In this section:
antique firearm—
(a)means a muzzle-loading pistol (including a percussion-lock pistol that is muzzle-loading) that uses black powder to propel a projectile; but
(b)does not include a breech-loading pistol—
(i)with a rotating cylinder; or
(ii)that accepts metal cartridges.
explosive-powered tool—see the Scaffolding and Lifts Regulation 1950, section 118A (2).
Part 2Clubs
Meaning of target pistol shooter—pt 2
In this part:
target pistol shooter, for an approved shooting club, means—
(a)a person who is a member of the club and holds a category H licence issued for the genuine reason of sport or target shooting; or
Note 1The Act, pt 7 deals with firearms licences.
Note 2An applicant for an adult firearms licence must have a genuine reason to possess or use a firearm. See the Act, s 61 for genuine reasons to possess or use firearms.
(b)a person who has applied for membership of the club and whose membership will involve the use of a pistol for sport or target shooting.
Shooting clubs, conditions of approval—Act, s 40 (5)
(1)It is a condition of the approval of a shooting club that the club must not admit a target pistol shooter (the applicant) as a member unless—
(a)the applicant gives the club a statement supplied by a police officer about the applicant’s criminal history (if any); and
(b)the applicant gives the club—
(i)for an adult applicant—2 character references, each from an adult who has known the applicant for at least 2 years; or
(ii)for a child applicant—a statement from a responsible person for the applicant describing the relationship the responsible person has with the applicant; and
(c)the secretary or another office-holder of the club is satisfied that the applicant has given—
(i)the name of any other approved shooting club of which the applicant is a member; and
(ii)for an adult applicant—a statement of the pistols owned by the applicant.
(2)It is a condition of the approval of a shooting club that the secretary, or another office-holder of the club, gives the registrar, in writing—
(a)the full name and home address of any club member who is a target pistol shooter (relevant club member) who leaves the club or does not renew membership with the club, as well as the date the membership change happened, within 14 days after the day the change in membership happens; and
(b)details of any change in the name or home address of a relevant club member within 14 days after the day the club is told of the change; and
(c)details of any suspension or cancellation of the membership of a relevant club member including the reason the club chose to suspend or cancel the membership within 7 days after the day the decision is made; and
(d)as soon as practicable after each 1 July, a return for the previous financial year that states—
(i)the full name and home address of relevant club members as at the date of the return; and
(ii)the number and kind of activities mentioned in section 68 (Minimum participation rates for members of approved clubs—Act, dict, def active, par (a)) that each relevant club member took part in during the previous financial year; and
(iii)the pistols known by the club, or the secretary or other office-holder, to be owned by each relevant club member during the previous financial year; and
NoteIf a form is approved under the Act, s 271 for a return, the form must be used.
(e)if the secretary or other officer-holder of the club believes on reasonable grounds that a relevant club member, or an applicant for membership to be a relevant club member, may pose a threat to public safety, or a threat to the person’s own safety, if in possession of a pistol—that the secretary or office‑holder tells the registrar about the belief.
(3)It is a condition of the approval of a shooting club that the club must ensure that a person whose category H licence has been suspended or cancelled does not use a pistol on any approved shooting range owned or used by the club.
(4)To remove any doubt, the honest disclosure of something to the registrar to comply with a condition under subsection (2) does not give rise to a civil or criminal proceeding against the club or the secretary or other office-holder of the club in relation to loss, damage or injury of any kind to anyone.
Shooting clubs, power to request information from registrar about target pistol shooters—Act, s 272 (2) (m)
(1)This section applies if a target pistol shooter applies for membership of an approved shooting club.
(2)The secretary or another office-holder of the approved shooting club may ask the registrar, in relation to an application for membership of the club by a target pistol shooter (the applicant), to give the secretary or other office-holder of the club information about any of the following known to the registrar:
(a)for an adult applicant—the pistols owned by the applicant;
(b)any other approved shooting club, or approved shooting club (however described) in a State, of which the applicant is a member;
NoteState includes the Northern Territory, see the Legislation Act, dict, pt 1.
(c)any other approved shooting club, or approved shooting club (however described) in a State, of which the applicant has been refused membership, or had his or her membership suspended or cancelled, in the 5 years before the day the application is made;
(d)any category H licence issued to the applicant that has been cancelled in the 5 years before the day the application is made;
(e)any earlier application for a category H licence by the applicant that has been refused by the registrar in the 5 years before the day the application for membership is made.
(3)The secretary or other office-holder of the approved shooting club may also ask the registrar, in relation to an application for membership, to disclose to the secretary or other office-holder of the club the applicant’s criminal history (if any) that is, in the registrar’s opinion, relevant to the issue of a category H licence.
(4)The registrar is authorised to give or disclose the information mentioned in subsections (2) and (3) to the secretary or other relevant office-holder of the club.
Target pistol shooters to tell club about change of name or address—Act, s 272 (2) (m)
(1)A target pistol shooter (the person) commits an offence if—
(a)the person is a member of an approved shooting club; and
(b)the person’s name or home address changes; and
(c)the person does not tell the secretary or another office-holder of the club, in writing, about the change within—
(i)for an adult—14 days after the day the change happens; or
(ii)for a child—28 days after the day the change happens.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
NoteA child may obtain a minors firearms licence if the child is at least 12 years old—see s 28.
(2)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Collectors clubs, conditions of approval—Act, s 40 (5)
(1)It is a condition of the approval of a collectors club that the secretary or another office-holder of the club tells the registrar, in writing, about the following:
(a)the suspension or cancellation of the membership of a person who collects pistols and the reasons for the suspension or cancellation;
(b)if the secretary or other officer-holder of the club believes on reasonable grounds that a club member who collects pistols, or an applicant for membership of the club who collects pistols, is not a suitable person to possess a pistol—the belief that the person is not a suitable person to possess a pistol.
(2)Notice under subsection (1) must be given to the registrar not later than 7 days after—
(a)for a decision to suspend or cancel a membership—the day after the day the decision is made; or
(b)for a belief that a person is not a suitable person to possess a pistol—the day the secretary or relevant office-holder forms the belief that the person is not a suitable person.
(3)In determining whether a person is a suitable person to possess a pistol, the secretary or other office-holder of the club (the decision maker) may consider the following:
(a)whether the person’s physical or mental health reduces the person’s ability to handle firearms responsibly;
(b)whether, during the 10 years before the day the decision maker has to determine whether the person is suitable, the person has—
(i)been released (whether on parole or otherwise) after serving a term of imprisonment or detention; or
(ii)been subject to a protection order or corresponding order that has been revoked; or
(iii)been subject to an interim protection order or corresponding order; or
(iv)been convicted or found guilty of an offence (other than a prescribed offence)—
(A)against this regulation or a corresponding law; or
(B)in the ACT or elsewhere involving violence, drugs, alcohol or weapons; or
NoteA conviction does not include a spent conviction or an extinguished conviction (see Spent Convictions Act 2000, s 16 (c) (i) and s 19H (1) (c) (i)).
(v)given an undertaking to a court, in the ACT or elsewhere, to keep the peace or be of good behaviour; or
(vi)had his or her licence suspended or cancelled.
(4)To remove any doubt, the honest disclosure of something to the registrar to comply with a condition under subsection (1) does not give rise to a civil or criminal proceeding against the club or the secretary or other relevant office-holder of the club in relation to loss, damage or injury of any kind to anyone.
(5)In this section:
prescribed offence means an offence—
(a)against this regulation or a corresponding law; or
(b)in the ACT or elsewhere involving violence, drugs, alcohol or weapons; or
(c)punishable by imprisonment for longer than 1 year.
Part 3Licensing—prohibited firearms and pistols
Prohibited pistols, sport or target shooting—Act, s 52 (3), (4) and sch 3, item 6, col 5
(1)The holder of a category H licence issued for the genuine reason of sport or target shooting is authorised to possess and use a registered prohibited pistol of more than 9.65mm calibre, but not more than 11.43mm calibre, for the following purposes:
(a)taking part in any of the following kinds of pistol shooting competitions:
(i)an approved competition that involves the pistol target shooting discipline known as Metallic Silhouette;
(ii)an approved competition that involves the pistol target shooting discipline known as Single Action;
(b)practising on an approved shooting range for a competition mentioned in paragraph (a).
NoteThis subsection applies to a pistol of more than 0.38 inch calibre but not more than 0.45 inch calibre.
(2)The holder of a category H licence issued for the genuine reason of sport or target shooting is authorised to possess and use a registered prohibited pistol that has a barrel length of less than 120mm for the following purposes:
(a)taking part in an approved specialised target shooting competition;
(b)practising on an approved shooting range for the competition.
(3)In this section:
approved, for a competition, means a competition that is conducted or organised by an approved shooting club and approved by the registrar.
NoteThe registrar may approve a shooting competition—see the Act, s 20 (1) (b).
Category C licence, prohibited firearm used for sport or target shooting, offences—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
(1)A person commits an offence if the person—
(a)holds a category C licence that authorises the person to possess and use a prohibited firearm (other than a firearm mentioned in the Act, schedule 1, item 1, item 6, item 11 or item 12) for the genuine reason of sport or target shooting; and
(b)uses the firearm other than—
(i)on an approved shooting range; and
(ii)in accordance with the rules of the relevant club affiliated with the Australian Clay Target Association; and
(iii)for the purposes of a shooting competition or of practice for the competition.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
(2)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Part 4Licensing—adult firearms
Division 4.1 Adult firearms licences—general
Adult licence applications, information and documents—Act, s 54 (2) (b) and (c)
(1)An application mentioned in table 15, column 2 must contain the information, and be accompanied by any document, mentioned in column 3 in relation to the application.
(2)For table 15, items 18 and 19, the following people are prescribed:
(a)an officer of, or volunteer working for, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals;
(b)a veterinary practitioner;
(c)a person employed by or within, or authorised by, an administrative unit responsible for any of the following Acts:
(i)the Animal Welfare Act 1992;
(ii)the Biosecurity Act 2023;
(iii)the Domestic Animals Act 2000;
(iv)the Environment Protection Act 1997;
(d)a drover or a person who, because he or she transports, handles or otherwise deals with animals, may be required to destroy an animal.
Table 15
| column 1 item | column 2 application | column 3 required information and documentation |
| 1 | application for renewal of a category A, category B or category H licence if— (a) the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is for sport or target shooting; and (b) the application does not carry the stamp of an approved club signed by the club’s senior instructor | a document signed by an office-holder of the approved club confirming that the applicant is a current financial member of the club |
| 2 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is recreational hunting or vermin control on specified rural land | (a) the written authority of the owner or occupier of the land to hunt or control vermin on the land; (b) the name and address of the owner or occupier of the land; (c) the telephone number of the owner or occupier; (d) the name (if any), location and size of the land; (e) what the applicant is allowed to hunt or control; (f) dates when the applicant has permission to hunt or control |
| 3 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is recreational hunting or vermin control in a reserve | an authorisation given by a State or another Territory that authorises the applicant to use a firearm in a stated reserve for recreational hunting or vermin control, or a certified copy of the authorisation |
| 4 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is primary production | (a) the name (if any), location and size of the land the applicant uses for primary production; (b) documentation that demonstrates that— (i) the applicant’s occupation is the business of a primary producer; or (ii) the applicant is the owner, lessee or manager of land used for primary production; (c) a statement signed by the applicant to the effect that the applicant intends to use the firearm solely in connection with farming or grazing activities |
| 5 | application for a category C licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is primary production | (a) a signed statement by the applicant to the effect that— (i) the applicant has a genuine occupational need to use a category C firearm because his or her occupation is related to primary production; and (ii) the occupational need cannot be satisfied by the use of a firearm that is not prohibited; and (iii) the applicant will not use the firearm to which the application relates except in connection with primary production; (b) particulars or relevant documents (if any) that support the statements in paragraph (a) (i) and (ii) |
| 6 | application for a category C licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is vertebrate pest animal control | (a) a statement signed by the applicant to the effect that— (i) the applicant has a genuine occupational need to use a category C firearm for the purposes of vertebrate pest animal control; and (ii) the occupational need cannot be satisfied by the use of a firearm that is not prohibited; and (iii) the applicant will not use the firearm to which the application relates except in connection with primary production or the genuine occupational need or for the purpose of protecting the environment from the effects of vertebrate pest animals; (b) particulars or relevant documents (if any) that support the statements in paragraph (a) (i) and (ii) |
| 7 | application for a category C licence (other than for a licence for the possession or use of firearms mentioned in the Act, sch 1, item 1, 6, 11 or 12) if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is sport or target shooting and the applicant is physically unable to compete in shooting competitions without the use of a semiautomatic or pump-action shotgun | (a) a written statement from an officer of a club affiliated with the Australian Clay Target Association to the effect that the applicant is physically unable to compete in a shooting competition without the use of a semiautomatic or pump-action shotgun; (b) a certificate from a doctor certifying that the person ought to be considered physically unable to compete in a shooting competition without the use of a semiautomatic or pump-action shotgun |
| 8 | application for a category C licence (other than for a licence for the possession or use of firearms mentioned in the Act, sch 1, item 1, 6, 11 or 12) if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is sport or target shooting and the applicant was lawfully in possession of the firearm on or before 14 November 1996 | evidence the applicant was lawfully in possession of the prohibited firearm on or before 14 November 1996 |
| 9 | application for a category D licence | (a) a statement signed by the applicant to the effect that— (i) the applicant has a genuine occupational need to possess or use a category D firearm for the purposes of vertebrate pest animal control; and (ii) if the applicant is a person mentioned in the Act, table 61, item 4 (the genuine reason of vertebrate pest animal control), column 3, paragraph (a) or (b)—the occupational need cannot be met by the use of a firearm that is not prohibited; and (iii) if the applicant is a person mentioned in the Act, table 61, item 4, column 3, paragraph (c)—the occupational need cannot be met in any other way; and (iv) if the applicant is a person mentioned in the Act, table 61, item 4, column 3, paragraph (a) or (b)—the applicant will not use the firearm to which the application relates except in connection with primary production or the genuine occupational need, or for the purpose of protecting the environment from the effects of vertebrate pest animals; and (v) if the applicant is a person mentioned in the Act, table 61, item 4, column 3, paragraph (c)—the applicant will not use the firearm to which the application relates except in connection with the campaign mentioned in the Act, table 61, item 4, column 3, paragraph (c); (b) information or relevant documents (if any) that support the statements in subparagraphs (i) to (v) |
| 10 | application for a category H licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is business | (a) a statement signed by the applicant to the effect that— (i) in the ordinary course of the applicant’s business the applicant receives, carries or escorts not less than $30 000 of money or valuables more than once each month; and (ii) the applicant intends to continue carrying on the business for the next 12 months; and (iii) the applicant has passed an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor; (b) particulars or relevant documents (if any) supporting the applicant’s statement |
| 11 | application for a category H licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is employment by a security business | a certificate from the person in charge of a security business stating— (a) that the applicant is employed, or is to be employed, by the business and will be required to possess a category H firearm in the course of that employment; and (b) whether the applicant will be required to wear a uniform; and (c) whether the applicant will be required to carry the firearm concealed or whether it will be visible to the public |
| 12 | application for the renewal of a category H licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is employment by a security business | (a) a certificate from a person in charge of a security business that employs the applicant stating that the particulars provided in relation to the initial application for the licence are still correct or, if they are not, how they have changed; (b) a document that establishes that the applicant has passed an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor within the period of 90 days immediately before the date of the application |
| 13 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is employment by other than a security business | (a) the name of the employer and a description of the employer’s business; (b) a statement signed by or on behalf of the employer to the effect that— (i) the employer employs or intends to employ the applicant; and (ii) the applicant will be required to use or possess a category A or category B firearm in the course of that employment |
| 14 | application for the renewal of a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is employment by other than a security business | a certificate from the applicant’s employer stating that the particulars provided in relation to the initial application are still correct or, if they are not, how they have changed |
| 15 | application for a category C licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is employment (other than by a security business) or occupational requirements relating to rural purposes | (a) a statement signed by the applicant to the effect that— (i) the applicant has a genuine occupational need to use a category C firearm that, if relevant, relates to rural purposes; and (ii) the need cannot be satisfied by using a firearm that is not prohibited; and (iii) the firearm will be used solely in connection with the applicant’s occupation; (b) particulars or documents (if any) supporting paragraph (a) (i) and (ii) |
| 16 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is occupational requirements relating to rural purposes | (a) a signed statement from a person to the effect that— (i) the applicant is employed by the person in a rural occupation; and (ii) for the purposes of that employment the applicant is required to use or possess a category A or category B firearm; and (iii) the name (if any), location and size of any property where the applicant will be employed; (b) the approximate hours and days when the applicant will be employed |
| 17 | application for the renewal of a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is occupational requirements relating to rural purposes | a statement signed by the applicant’s employer stating that the particulars provided in relation to the initial application are still correct or, if they are not, how they have changed |
| 18 | application for a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is animal welfare and the applicant is a prescribed person | (a) particulars of the location where the applicant is employed or works; (b) a statement signed by the applicant’s employer or, if the applicant is not employed by another person, by the applicant stating that the applicant is required to possess a firearm for the purposes of his or her occupation |
| 19 | for an application for the renewal of a category A or category B licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is for animal welfare and the applicant is a prescribed person | a signed statement from the employer of the applicant or, if the applicant is not employed by another person, by the applicant confirming that the applicant is still required to possess a firearm in accordance with the initial application or outlining any changes to the particulars contained in that application |
| 20 | for an applicant whose genuine reason for possessing or using a firearm is firearms collection | a document from the approved collectors club of which the applicant is a member stating that— (a) the applicant is a member of the club; and (b) for a licence that permits the applicant to collect pistols manufactured after 1946—the collection has a thematic structure and the applicant researches or studies firearms; and (c) for a licence that permits the applicant to collect any other kind of firearm—the collection has a genuine historical or thematic structure or a genuine commemorative or investment value |
| 21 | application for an heirlooms licence | for the firearm that is the subject of the application— (a) the age of the firearm; and (b) the type of firearm; and (c) how the firearm came into the possession of the family; and (d) the length of time that the firearm has been in the possession of the family |
Government agency responsible for vertebrate pest animal control—Act, s 61
For the Act, table 61, item 4, each administrative unit responsible for the following Acts is a prescribed government agency:
(a)the Animal Welfare Act 1992;
(b)the Biosecurity Act 2023;
(c)the Domestic Animals Act 2000;
(d)the Environment Protection Act 1997.
16ACategory C licences, genuine reasons—Act, s 64 (a)
The following genuine reasons are prescribed:
(a)vertebrate pest animal control;
(b)sport or target shooting, if any of the following also applies in relation to an applicant for a category C licence:
(i)the applicant is physically unable to compete in shooting competitions without the use of a semiautomatic or pump‑action shotgun;
(ii)the applicant was lawfully in possession of the firearm on or before 14 November 1996;
(c)employment (other than by a security business) or occupational requirements relating to rural purposes.
16BApplication of s 16A (b) and (c) to previously issued category C licences
(1)This section applies if—
(a)an adult had been granted a category C licence or a renewal of a category C licence before the commencement of the Firearms Amendment Regulation 2024 (No 1), section 8, but on or after 15 January 2009; and
(b)the licence or renewal of the licence is for the possession or use of a prohibited firearm for the genuine reason (however expressed) of—
(i)sport or target shooting, and—
(A)at the time the licensee applied for the licence or renewal, the licensee was physically unable to compete in shooting competitions without the use of a semiautomatic or pump-action shotgun; or
(B)the licensee was lawfully in possession of the firearm on or before 14 November 1996; or
(ii)employment (other than by a security business) or occupational requirements relating to rural purposes.
(2)Section 16A (b) or (c) applies in relation to the licence or renewal of the licence as if those genuine reasons had been prescribed under the Act, section 64 (a), on or after 15 January 2009.
Adult licences, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
NoteThe Act, s 64 restricts the issue of category C licences to adults who establish certain genuine reasons. The applicant must also produce evidence satisfying the registrar of the special need to possess or use a category C firearm and that that special need cannot be met in any other way.
(1)This section applies to an adult applying for a category C licence if the adult’s genuine reason is primary production.
(2)Evidence of the size of the adult’s property that may be produced by the adult includes the following:
(a)the number of properties involved;
(b)the size of the properties involved;
(c)the size of, and potential threat posed by, a particular vertebrate pest animal;
(d)how close any property involved is to a residential area.
Adult licences, evidence of special need for category D licences—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
NoteThe Act, s 65 restricts the issue of category D licences to adults who establish a genuine reason of vertebrate pest animal control to possess or use a firearm to which category D applies. The applicant must produce evidence satisfying the registrar of the special need to possess or use a category D firearm and that that special need cannot be met in any other way.
(1)This section applies to an adult applying for a category D licence if the adult’s genuine reason is vertebrate pest animal control.
(2)Evidence of the size of the adult’s property that may be produced by the adult includes the following:
(a)the number of properties involved;
(b)evidence of the size of the properties involved;
(c)the size of, and potential threat posed by, a particular vertebrate pest animal;
(d)how close any property involved is to a residential area.
Adult licences, period—Act, s 78 (1) (b)
(1)This section applies to each category of adult firearms licence (other than a category D licence) if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is 1 of the following:
(a)vertebrate pest animal control;
(b)business or employment;
(c)occupational requirements relating to rural purposes;
(d)animal welfare.
(2)The period the licence may remain in force is 2 years.
NoteFor category D licences, see the Act, s 78 (1) (c).
Division 4.2 Adult firearms licences—conditions
Adult licence condition, category C or H licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
(1)This section applies to a category C or category H licence if the genuine reason for possessing or using the firearm is sport or target shooting.
(2)It is a condition of the licence that, each year—
(a)the licensee gives the registrar a written statement from an approved club stating that the licensee is a financial and active member of the club; and
(b)if the licensee holds a category C licence that authorises the possession and use of a prohibited firearm (other than a firearm mentioned in the Act, schedule 1, item 1, item 6, item 11 or item 12) for the genuine reason of sport or target shooting—the licensee takes part in at least 4 shooting competitions organised by a club affiliated with the Australian Clay Target Association.
(3)The licensee must give the registrar the statement mentioned in subsection (2) (a) not later than 30 days after the end of the year.
NoteA year, without specifying the kind of year, means a calendar year (see Legislation Act, dict, def year).
Adult licence conditions, category H licences for business—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
(1)The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a category H licence if the genuine reason is business:
(a)the licensee must have passed an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor at least once every 12 months while the licence is in force;
(b)the licensee must, within 7 days after the end of the relevant period, give the registrar a written report containing particulars of the occasions when the firearm was carried in connection with the business within the relevant period;
(c)the licensee must not possess more than 1 category H firearm.
(2)In subsection (1) (b), the relevant period is the 6 months beginning on the day when the licence is issued and each 6 months following.
Adult licence conditions, category H licences for employment—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a category H licence if the genuine reason is employment:
(a)the licensee must pass an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor at least once in every 12-month period while the licence is in force;
(b)if the licensee fails an examination mentioned in paragraph (a)—the licensee must pass the examination within 14 days after the day of the failure;
(c)a licensee must not undertake an examination mentioned in paragraph (a) that the licensee has failed 3 times.
Adult licence conditions, firearms collectors licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a firearms collectors licence:
(a)the licensee must not display an heirloom unless the display is authorised under a permit;
(b)a licensee must not dispose of a firearm other than a category C or category D firearm to someone other than a licensed firearms dealer or licensed collector.
Adult licence conditions, heirlooms licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
(1)The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a firearms heirlooms licence:
(a)the licensee must not display an heirloom unless the display is authorised under a permit;
(b)the licensee must not possess ammunition for an heirloom held under the licence unless authorised to do so by the registrar.
(2)If the licensee is authorised by the registrar to possess ammunition for an heirloom under the licence, the licence must state the amount of ammunition that the licensee is authorised to possess.
Dealer licence condition—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
(1)It is a condition of a firearms dealer licence that the licensee must not operate as a firearms dealer at premises other than the registered premises unless the registrar approves the operation, whether on a written application from the licensee or otherwise.
(2)The registrar must decide an application mentioned in subsection (1) as if it were an application for a firearms dealer licence.
NoteIf the registrar refuses the application, the person refused may apply for review of the decision (see pt 16).
Dealer licence condition, club armourers—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
(1)This section applies in relation to a firearms dealer licence if the licensee has been issued the licence for the purpose of being a club armourer.
(2)It is a condition of the licence that the licensee must only buy firearms or firearm parts from, or dispose of them to, people who are—
(a)members of the approved club of which the licensee is the armourer; or
(b)members of an approved club that is visiting that club.
(3)The licensee must not make a profit from a transaction mentioned in subsection (2).
Collector licence condition, making firearm incapable of being fired—Act, s 76 (a)
A firearm (other than a category C or category D firearm) must be made temporarily incapable of being fired—
(a)by the removal and separate secure storage of the bolt or firing pin; or
(b)if removal and storage in accordance with paragraph (a) is not practicable—by the use of an appropriate trigger lock.
NoteA collectors licence may contain a category C or category D firearm only if the firearm has been rendered permanently inoperable—see the Act, s 76.
Part 5Licensing—minors firearms
Minors firearms licences, minimum age—Act, s 85 (1) (a)
The prescribed age is 12 years old.
Part 6Licensing—composite entities
Division 6.1 Composite entity licences—general
Composite entity licences, stated information and documents for applications—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
NoteThe Act, s 102 requires an applicant for a composite entity licence to give the registrar stated further information or documents that the registrar reasonably needs to decide the application.
An application for a category A or category B licence by a composite entity that carries on business in the ACT as a security organisation must contain or be accompanied by the following:
(a)a certified copy of the certificate of registration of the business name under the Business Names Registration Act 2011 (Cwlth);
(b)particulars of the entity’s core business functions;
(c)particulars of why the entity needs to possess a firearm and the number and type of firearms required;
(d)the name, title and business address of the person nominated by the entity to hold the licence;
(e)the name and position of any employee of the entity who will be required to use or possess a firearm during the course of employment.
Composite entity, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
NoteThe Act, s 111 restricts the issue of category C licences to composite entities who establish a genuine reason to possess or use a firearm to which category C applies. The applicant must produce evidence satisfying the registrar of the special need to possess or use a category C firearm and that that special need cannot be met in any other way by the authority given by a category A or category B or otherwise.
(1)This section applies to a composite entity applying for a category C licence if the entity’s genuine reason is primary production.
(2)Evidence of the size of the composite entity’s property that may be produced by the entity includes the following:
(a)the number of properties involved;
(b)the size of the properties involved;
(c)the size of, and potential threat posed by, a particular vertebrate pest animal;
(d)how close any property involved is to a residential area.
Division 6.2 Composite entity licences—conditions
Composite entity licence conditions—Act, s 116 (1) (h)
It is a condition of a composite entity licence that the licensee must—
(a)tell the registrar in writing if someone whose employment by the entity included a requirement to use or possess a firearm is no longer employed by the entity; and
(b)give the notice to the registrar within 14 days after the day the employment ends.
Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for business—Act, s 116 (1) (h)
(1)The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a category H licence if the genuine reason is business:
(a)the registered principal must have passed an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor at least once every 12 months while the licence is in force;
(b)the registered principal must, within 7 days after the end of the relevant period, give the registrar a written report containing particulars of the occasions when the firearm was carried in connection with the business within the relevant period;
(c)the registered principal or another person employed by the licensee must not, when engaged by the licensee, possess more than 1 category H firearm.
(2)In subsection (1) (b), the relevant period is the 6 months beginning on the day when the licence is issued and each 6 months following.
Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for employment—Act, s 116 (1) (h)
The following conditions are prescribed in relation to a category H licence if the genuine reason is employment:
(a)the registered principal must pass an examination in the safe handling and use of a category H firearm conducted by an authorised instructor at least once in every 12-month period while the licence is in force;
(b)if the registered principal fails an examination mentioned in paragraph (a)—the registered principal must pass the examination within 14 days after the day of the failure;
(c)a registered principal must not undertake an examination mentioned in paragraph (a) that the registered principal has failed 3 times.
Part 7Licensing—international and interstate licences
Permit to acquire, conditions for foreign acquirers—Act, s 154 (c)
A permit to acquire a firearm issued to a foreign acquirer is subject to the condition that the person—
(a)only acquire a firearm of the type stated in the permit; and
(b)produce the permit when the person acquires the firearm; and
(c)carry the permit when the person is in possession of the firearm to which the permit relates and produce the permit to a police officer on request; and
(d)acquire, possess or use the firearm only for the purpose stated in the permit.
Part 8Temporary recognition of other licences
Temporary recognition of interstate licences, for possession or use of firearm—Act, s 136 (1) (a) (ii)
The following purposes are prescribed:
(a)to conduct a shooting gallery for airgun use—
(i)at the National Exhibition Centre during the period of the show conducted by the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society of the Royal Canberra Show; or
(ii)during the period of the festival conducted by ACT Festivals Incorporated of the Canberra National Multicultural Festival;
(b)to provide security as an employee of a security organisation;
(c)to control vertebrate pest animals under an agreement with the Territory;
(d)to exercise the functions of an authorised person under the Biosecurity Act 2023;
(e)to kill an animal in accordance with the written permission of the registrar.
Conditions of temporary recognition of interstate licences—Act, s 136 (3)
The prescribed conditions for the possession or use of a firearm are—
(a)that the individual complies with the Act, part 12 (Safe storage of firearms) to the extent required of an individual holding a licence issued in the ACT corresponding with the individual’s interstate licence; and
(b)that the individual does not let anyone else possess or use any firearm in the individual’s possession if the other person is not authorised to possess or use the firearm.
Part 9Firearms dealers
Dealer licences, restrictions on issue—Act, s 272 (2) (e)
(1)The registrar must refuse to issue a firearms dealer licence to an applicant unless satisfied that—
(a)the applicant is carrying on, or intends to carry on, the business of a firearms dealer at the relevant premises stated in the application; and
(b)those premises are suitable for carrying on the business of a firearms dealer.
(2)In considering whether premises are suitable for subsection (1) (b), the registrar must have regard to the following:
(a)the nature of the activities conducted, or proposed to be conducted, on the premises;
(b)the types of firearms to which the licence relates;
(c)whether adequate provision has been made for the safekeeping of firearms by means of safes, strongrooms or some other method;
(d)the security of the premises against unauthorised entry;
(e)for a licence that authorises the testing of firearms on the premises—whether an efficient bullet recovery box or bullet stop is provided on the premises.
Dealer licences, required particulars for recording acquisitions and disposals—Act, s 194 (2) (e)
The following particulars are prescribed:
(a)for each firearm that is the subject of an acquisition or disposal—
(i)the manufacturer; and
(ii)the model; and
(iii)a description of the firing action; and
(iv)the calibre; and
(v)the serial number;
(b)the date of birth of the other person;
(c)if the other person is authorised to possess the firearm or part by a licence issued in a State or another Territory—the kind of licence and the issuing jurisdiction;
(d)if the dealer receives a firearm or part for modification or repair—a description of the modification or repair requested and provided;
(e)for the sale or transfer of a firearm that was manufactured by the dealer—the date of completion of manufacture.
Licensed firearms dealers, additional requirements—Act, s 272 (2) (e)
(1)A licensed firearms dealer commits an offence if—
(a)the dealer has or acquires possession of a firearm or spare barrel; and
(b)the firearm or spare barrel is not separately and clearly numbered in a way that allows the firearm or spare barrel to be identified; and
(c)the dealer fails to notify the registrar in writing that the dealer possesses the firearm or spare barrel.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
(2)A licensed firearms dealer commits an offence if—
(a)the registrar asks the dealer, in writing, to produce for inspection by a police officer any firearm to which the licence relates; and
(b)the firearm is not a category A or category B firearm; and
(c)the dealer fails to produce the firearm when requested to do so by a police officer.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
(3)A licensed firearms dealer commits an offence if the dealer fails to state or display his or her licence number in an advertisement for the dealer’s firearms business.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
(4)A licensed firearms dealer commits an offence if—
(a)a sale is made through the dealer; and
(b)the dealer fails to record the details of the sale.
Maximum penalty: 10 penalty units.
Spare barrels, prescribed records when barrel sold—Act, s 194 (2) (e)
(1)The following must be recorded by a firearms dealer in relation to the sale of a spare barrel to someone else:
(a)the date of the sale;
(b)if the barrel is sold with a firearm that the barrel can be used with—
(i)the number of the other person’s permit to acquire the firearm; and
(ii)either—
(A)the make and serial number of the firearm; or
(B)the unique identifying number given by the registrar of the firearm;
(c)either—
(i)the make and serial number of the barrel sold; or
(ii)the unique identifying number given to the barrel by the registrar.
(2)The following must be recorded by a firearms dealer in relation to the acquisition of a spare barrel from someone else:
(a)the date of the acquisition;
(b)the number of the licence authorising the other person to use and possess any firearm the barrel was used with;
(c)either—
(i)the make and serial number of the barrel acquired; or
(ii)the unique identifying number given to the barrel by the registrar;
(d)either—
(i)the make and serial number of any firearm acquired with the barrel; or
(ii)the unique identifying number given by the registrar of any firearm acquired with the barrel.
Part 10Registration
Register of firearms, other particulars—Act, s 157
The following particulars must be included in the register in relation to each registered firearm:
(a)the address, date of birth and sex of the registered owner;
(b)the name, address, date of birth and sex of each registered user;
(c)particulars of the grant of the licence or permit for the firearm and of any renewal, suspension, cancellation or surrender of that licence or permit;
(d)the identifying number of any spare barrel for the firearm if the barrel and the firearm are of a different calibre;
(e)the State or Territory that licensed or authorised the person in whose name the firearm is registered;
(f)for each registered owner of the firearm—
(i)the date of its acquisition by the owner; and
(ii)the name and address of the person from whom the owner acquired the firearm;
(g)if the registered owner of the firearm disposes of the firearm—
(i)the date of disposal; and
(ii)the name and address of the person who disposes of the firearm;
(h)if the registered owner has the registrar’s written approval under the Act, section 250 (2) to modify the firearm—
(i)details of the approval, including when it expires under the Act, section 250 (5); and
(ii)if the firearm is modified—
(A)the date the registrar decides under the Act, section 251 whether the firearm has been modified in accordance with the approval; and
(B)the registrar’s decision.
Registration of unregistered firearms, prescribed period—Act, s 177 (4) (b)
The period within which the firearm may be registered is 7 days after the date of its acquisition.
Registered firearms, required particulars when firearm acquired or sold—Act, s 178 (2) (b)
(1)For the sale of a firearm, the following particulars are to be given to the registrar:
(a)the date of the sale;
(b)the name and licence details of the licensed firearms dealer or other person to whom the firearm was sold;
(c)either—
(i)the make and serial number of the firearm sold; or
(ii)the identifying number given to the firearm by the registrar;
(d)for any spare barrel sold with the firearm—
(i)the make and serial number of the barrel; or
(ii)the unique identifying number given to the barrel by the registrar.
(2)For the acquisition of a firearm, the following particulars are to be given to the registrar:
(a)the date of the acquisition;
(b)the number of the person’s permit to acquire the firearm;
(c)the number of the licence or permit authorising the person who acquired the firearm to possess it;
(d)the name and licence details of the licensed firearms dealer or other person from whom the firearm was acquired;
(e)either—
(i)the make and serial number of the firearm acquired; or
(ii)the identifying number given to the firearm by the registrar;
(f)for any spare barrel acquired with the firearm, either—
(i)the make and serial number of the barrel; or
(ii)the unique identifying number given to the barrel by the registrar.
Part 11Safe storage of firearms
Division 11.1 Security and safe storage
Safe storage requirements, category A and category B firearms and paintball markers—Act, s 181 (1) (c)
When a category A or category B firearm or paintball marker is stored, the firing mechanism must, if at all possible, be removed and stored separately from the firearm or marker.
44AStorage of more than 10 category A or category B firearms—Act, s 180 (3)
(1)This section applies if—
(a)a person holds any of the following licences:
(i)a collectors licence;
(ii)a category A licence;
(iii)a category B licence; and
(b)more than 10 category A or category B firearms are stated in the licence.
(2)The person takes reasonable steps to ensure that the firearms are stored safely if the firearms are stored in a metal safe or a concrete or brick safe of a kind described in section 47 (3).
Security and safe storage requirements, category D firearms—Act, s 182 (1) (c)
(1)The holder of a category D licence must store the firearm to which the licence relates in a place in which an intruder alarm is installed.
(2)The intruder alarm must be connected to the mains power with a battery backup in case of power failure and include—
(a)a space movement detector that uses a microwave, passive infra-red, ultrasonic or similar system of detection; and
(b)an external noisemaker that sounds when the alarm is activated.
Storage of not more than 10 category A or category B firearms, collectors—Act, s 180 (3)
(1)A person who holds a collectors licence takes reasonable steps to ensure that a category A or category B firearm stated in the licence is stored safely if the firearm is stored in accordance with this section.
(2)If not more than 10 category A or category B firearms are stated in the licence—
(a)the firearms must be stored in a metal lockable container and the firing mechanisms must be stored in a separate lockable metal drawer or container that may be external or internal to the metal lockable container; or
(b)the firearms must be stored in a security container that is constructed of a recognised hardwood and lined with steel sheeting, the door of which is fitted with metal hinges and either—
(i)an appropriate deadlock; or
(ii)2 sliding bolts fitted with padlocks of an appropriate strength.
(3)If a container mentioned in subsection (2) (other than a container for firing mechanisms) weighs less than 150kg when empty, it must be fixed to the floor or wall with no fewer than 2 appropriate anchor bolts.
Storage of category C, category D and category H firearms, collectors—Act, s 180 (3)
(1)A person who holds a collectors licence takes reasonable steps to ensure that a category C, category D or category H firearm stated in the licence is stored safely if the firearm is stored in accordance with this section.
(2)The firearms must be stored in a metal safe or a concrete or brick safe.
(3)A safe mentioned in subsection (2) must—
(a)for a metal safe—
(i)be constructed of structural grade mild steel that conforms with AS/NZS 3678:1996 grade 250 and is not less than 3mm thick; and
(ii)be constructed with continuous welding of all edges; and
(b)for a safe other than a metal safe—be constructed of reinforced concrete, double brick or reinforced besser blocks that are not less than 140mm thick; and
(c)be fitted with a door—
(i)constructed of structural grade mild steel that conforms with Australian Standard 3678:1996 grade 250 and is not less than 3mm thick and that is swung on either—
(A)concealed pivots; or
(B)externally mounted sealed end hinges welded to the door and body of the container; and
(ii)that is flush fitting with a clearance around it of no more than 1mm; and
(d)if the door is hinged—have a fixed locking bar or dogging bolts welded to the inside face of the door near the hinge edge that engages or engage in a rebate in the container body when the door is closed; and
(e)be fitted with a 5-lever key deadlock or a locking mechanism that provides at least equivalent security; and
(f)be constructed with a full length steel rebate welded to the side of the container body, the locking edge of which will receive the deadlock of the locking mechanism.
(4)A metal safe mentioned in subsection (2) must be mounted on a wall or on the floor as follows:
(a)if mounted on brick—the safe must be attached by at least 2 Loxin anchor-type high-tensile bolts with a diameter of 52mm x 16mm and a 10mm thread;
(b)if mounted on concrete or stone—the safe must be attached by at least 2 Dyna-type bolts and expanding anchors with a diameter of 70mm x 12mm and a 10mm thread that are internally fitted through holes in the rear or bottom of the container that conform with the manufacturer’s specifications;
(c)if mounted on wall studs or floor joists—
(i)it must be attached flush against the timber or plaster surfaces by 2 steel hexagonal-head coach screws that are not less than 8mm in diameter x 50mm in length and are internally fitted through holes in the rear or bottom of the container that conform with the manufacturer’s specifications; and
(ii)the container, timber floor or plaster wall surfaces must be recessed so there is no airspace between the surfaces and the container, with the rear bottom edge of the container being recessed into skirting board.
(5)A locking mechanism mentioned in subsection (3) (e) must be securely fixed to the rear face of the door of the container by retaining screws and a metal strap overlapping, or enclosing, the locking case with each end welded to the rear door face.
47AComposite entity licence conditions, category H licences for safe storage of firearms by security organisations—Act, s 182 (2) (a) and (c)
(1)This section applies to the holder of a category H licence that is an entity that carries on business in the ACT as a security organisation.
(2)If not more than 1 registered firearm is held under the licence—
(a)when the firearm is not being used or carried, it must be—
(i)stored in a locked steel safe—
(A)of a type approved by the registrar; and
(B)bolted to the structure of the registered premises for the firearm; and
(ii)fitted with a trigger or barrel lock that prevents the firearm from being discharged; and
(iii)secured on, or in, a locked device within the safe; and
(b)the safe must be fitted with an alarm of a type that is—
(i)approved by the registrar; and
(ii)monitored at a place separate from the registered premises; and
(c)the registered premises must be approved by the registrar for storing the firearms.
(3)If more than 1, but not more than 5, registered firearms are held under the licence—
(a)when a firearm is not being used or carried, it must be—
(i)stored in a safe of a type that meets the requirements mentioned in paragraph (b); and
(ii)fitted with a trigger or barrel lock that prevents the firearm from being discharged; and
(iii)secured individually on, or in, a locked device within the safe; and
(b)the safe must be—
(i)a steel safe weighing at least 150kg; and
(ii)of a type approved by the registrar; and
(iii)bolted to the structure of the registered premises for the firearm; and
(iv)fitted with an alarm of a type approved by the registrar that—
(A)is monitored at a place separate from the registered premises; and
(B)is separate from an alarm for the registered premises; and
(v)locked at all times except when accessed for the purpose of distributing a firearm; and
(c)the registered premises must be approved by the registrar for storing the firearms.
(4)If more than 5, but not more than 15, registered firearms are held under the licence—
(a)when a firearm is not being used or carried, it must be—
(i)stored in a safe of a type that meets the requirements mentioned in paragraph (b); and
(ii)fitted with a trigger or barrel lock that prevents the firearm from being discharged; and
(iii)secured individually on, or in, a locked device within the safe; and
(b)the safe must be—
(i)a steel safe weighing at least 500kg; and
(ii)of a type approved by the registrar; and
(iii)bolted to the structure of the registered premises for the firearm; and
(iv)fitted with an alarm of a type approved by the registrar that—
(A)is monitored at a place separate from the registered premises; and
(B)is separate from an alarm for the registered premises; and
(v)locked at all times except when accessed for the purpose of distributing a firearm; and
(vi)fitted with 15-minute time delay locks; and
(c)the registered premises must be approved by the registrar for storing the firearms.
(5)If more than 15 registered firearms are held under the licence—
(a)when a firearm is not being used or carried, it must be—
(i)stored in—
(A)a safe of a type that meets the requirements mentioned in paragraph (b); or
(B)within a vault or control room of a type approved by the registrar; and
(ii)fitted with a trigger or barrel lock that prevents the firearm from being discharged; and
(iii)secured individually on, or in, a locked device within the safe, or vault or control room; and
(b)if a safe is used to store the firearms, the safe must be—
(i)a steel safe, weighing at least 500kg, of a type approved by the registrar; and
(ii)bolted to the structure of the registered premises for the firearm; and
(iii)fitted with an alarm of a type approved by the registrar that—
(A)is monitored at a place separate from the registered premises; and
(B)is separate from an alarm for the registered premises; and
(iv)locked at all times except when accessed for the purpose of distributing a firearm; and
(c)the registered premises must be approved by the registrar for storing the firearms.
(6)The registrar must not approve registered premises for storing registered firearms under the licence unless—
(a)the registrar is satisfied that the premises are capable of being secured to prevent unauthorised entry; and
(b)the premises have an intruder alarm system that is monitored at a place separate from the registered premises in a way that the registrar considers appropriate; and
(c)if the registrar considers it necessary—the premises have a duress facility that is monitored at a place separate from the premises in a way that the registrar considers appropriate; and
(d)the registrar is satisfied that premises are suitable for the nature of the use of the firearm by the licensee; and
(e)the registrar is otherwise satisfied that the premises are suitable for use as a place for the safe storage of firearms.
NoteIn determining the suitability of premises, the registrar must be satisfied that the place is suitable for the storage of firearms.
Storage of firearms, firearms dealers—Act, s 180 (3)
(1)A firearms dealer takes reasonable steps to ensure that a firearm in the dealer’s possession is stored safely if the firearm is stored in accordance with this section.
(2)A category A or category B firearm may be on permanent display if—
(a)it is locked securely in a padlocked rack that is permanently attached to a wall; and
(b)it is securely attached to the rack by means of a stainless steel cable that—
(i)is not less than 3mm in diameter; and
(ii)passes through the trigger guard; and
(iii)is securely fixed at the end that is not attached to the rack by a padlock of an appropriate strength; and
(c)when business ceases for the day, a security grille metal shutter, the rods of which are not less than 5mm in diameter, is fixed to the rack with padlocks of appropriate strength at each end.
(3)A category C or category H firearm must, unless being inspected by a customer, be securely locked in a metal safe or a concrete or brick safe of a kind described in section 47 (3).
(4)Any perimeter doors of premises on which any firearms are stored must be of solid construction, securely hinged in stout framework and fitted with a mortice or a deadlock.
(5)Any perimeter window or skylight of premises where any firearms are stored must be fitted with a security grille.
(6)The premises where any firearms are stored must be fitted with an intruder alarm—
(a)that includes—
(i)a space movement detector that uses a microwave, passive infra-red, ultrasonic or similar system of detection; and
(ii)an external noisemaker that sounds when the alarm is activated; and
(b)is connected to the mains power with a battery backup in case of power failure; and
(c)for premises that include a shopfront—is monitored directly by a private security company.
Division 11.2 Displays
Displaying firearms, reasonable steps in storing—Act, s 180 (3)
A person (other than a firearms dealer) takes reasonable steps in storing a prohibited firearm or any other firearm if—
(a)the person complies with the following provisions:
(i)for a firearm displayed for a period longer than 30 days—section 50 (Permanent displays) or section 52;
(ii)for a firearm displayed for 30 days or less—section 51 (Temporary displays) or section 52;
(iii)for a firearm displayed in a wall cabinet—section 52 (Wall displays—Act, s 180 (3)); and
(b)if the person is an heirlooms licence holder or a collectors licence holder—the display is authorised under a permit.
Example—temporary display of firearms
an arms fair where firearms and related items are exhibited and dealt with in accordance with the firearms dealer licence of the permit-holder
Permanent displays
(1)A firearm must not be displayed other than in a cabinet—
(a)that is lockable; and
(b)the parts of which that are not glass panelling are of solid timber or metal construction; and
(c)that contains no glass panelling other than glass panelling that is at least 7.5mm thick and is laminated.
(2)A firearm must be securely fixed in the cabinet by means of a stainless steel cable that—
(a)is not less than 3mm in diameter; and
(b)is securely attached to the side or bottom of the cabinet; and
(c)passes through the trigger guard; and
(d)is fixed at the end that is not attached to the cabinet by a padlock of an appropriate strength.
(3)If practicable, the bolt or firing mechanism must be removed from the firearm.
(4)A firearm must not be displayed on premises if the licensee, the owner and any lawful occupier of the premises where the firearm is displayed will be absent from the premises for longer than 72 hours.
Temporary displays
(1)The firearm must be displayed on a solid wood or metal bench.
(2)The firearm must be securely fixed to the bench by means of a stainless steel cable that—
(a)is not less than 3mm in diameter; and
(b)passes through the trigger guard of the firearm; and
(c)is fixed to the bench by a padlock of an appropriate strength.
(3)If practicable, the bolt or firing mechanism must be removed from the firearm.
(4)If fewer than 6 firearms are on display, a person with an appropriate licence for each category of firearm displayed must be present at all times when the firearms are displayed.
(5)If more than 6 firearms are on display, 2 people, each of whom has an appropriate licence for each category of firearm displayed, must be present at all times when the firearms are displayed.
Wall displays—Act, s 180 (3)
(1)A firearm must not be displayed on a wall except in accordance with this section.
(2)The firearm must be permanently inoperable in accordance with the Minister’s guidelines.
NoteFor Minister’s guidelines, see the Act, s 37.
(3)The firearm must be permanently fixed to a solid wood or metal frame by—
(a)welding; or
(b)by the use of no fewer than 4 steel hexagonal-head bolts of not less than 8mm in diameter and 50mm in length, with the nut for each being spot welded to the bolt on the side adjacent to the wall.
(4)The wood or metal frame mentioned in subsection (3) must be fixed to the wall as follows:
(a)if mounted on brick—the frame must be attached by at least 2 Loxin anchor-type high-tensile bolts with a diameter of 52mm x 16mm and a 10mm thread;
(b)if mounted on concrete or stone—the frame must be attached by at least 2 Dyna-type bolts with a diameter of 70mm x 12mm and a 10mm thread and expanding anchors;
(c)if mounted on wall studs—it must be attached flush against the timber or plaster surfaces by 2 steel hexagonal-head coach screws that are not less than 8mm in diameter and 50mm in length.
(5)The firearm must not be mounted less than—
(a)2m above ground level if mounted in a private residence; or
(b)3m above ground level if mounted in other than a private residence.
(a)Australian Biathlon Association;
(b)Modern Pentathlon Australia;
(c)Modern Pentathlon Association of NSW Inc.
Minimum participation rates for members of approved clubs—Act, dict, def active, par (a)
(1)A member of an approved hunting club must, in each 12-month period of the person’s licence, take part in 4 shooting activities of any approved hunting club that take place on separate days.
(2)The holder of a licence mentioned in an item in table 68, column 2 who is a member of an approved shooting club, must comply with the minimum participation rate mentioned in the item, column 3.
Table 68Shooting club participation rates table
| column 1 item | column 2 member | column 3 minimum participation rate |
| 1 | a licence, other than a category H licence | The holder must, in each 12-month period of the person’s licence, take part in at least 4 shooting activities at any approved shooting club that take place on separate days |
| 2 | a category H licence if the Act, s 75 (Adult firearms licences—special conditions for category H licences for sport or target shooting) applies | The holder must, in each 6-month period mentioned in the Act, s 75, take part in— (a) 6 shooting competitions that are conducted or organised by an approved shooting club (the member’s club) of which the licensee is a member and that take place on separate days; and (b) if the licensee is authorised by the licence to use 2 or more kinds of pistols—4 shooting competitions (or other shooting events) that are conducted or organised by the member’s club for each kind of pistol |
| 3 | a category H licence, other than if the Act, s 75 applies | The holder must, in each 12-month period of the licence, take part in— (a) 6 shooting competitions that are conducted or organised by the member’s club that take place on separate days; and (b) if the licensee is authorised by the licence to use 2 or more kinds of pistols—4 shooting competitions (or other shooting events) that are conducted or organised by the member’s club for each kind of pistol |
Pistols, prescribed dimensions—Act, dict, def pistol, par (b)
The prescribed dimensions are—
(a)for a firearm that has no stock—a barrel that is 40cm in length; or
(b)in any other case—an overall length of 70cm.
Firearms, permits for theatrical and other productions—Act, s 141 (a)
(1)A permit may be issued if—
(a)a theatrical or dramatic production or historical re-enactment in which a firearm is used is being staged by a theatrical, dramatic or historical society; and
(b)the person to whom the permit is to be issued is a performer in, or member of the society staging, the production or re‑enactment; and
(c)the person possesses the firearm for the purposes of the production or re-enactment; and
(d)the firearm is—
(i)lent or let on hire for the purpose of the production or re‑enactment by a registered owner; or
(ii)registered or endorsed on the licence of a person mentioned in paragraph (b); or
(iii)lent or let on hire by a person who is ordinarily resident in a State or another Territory who is legally in possession of the firearm under the law of that State or Territory.
(2)The permit does not authorise the use of ammunition other than blank ammunition in the relevant firearm.
(3)The permit must state—
(a)the purpose for which it is issued; and
(b)the period for which it is issued.
(4)If the registrar issues a permit because of subsection (1), the registrar must ensure that the purpose for which the permit is issued is endorsed on it.
Arms fairs, permits to conduct—Act, s 141 (a)
(1)A permit may be issued to authorise the use by a licensed firearms dealer of stated premises for the purposes of an arms fair if satisfied that the premises are suitable for the purpose.
(2)In considering whether premises are suitable for subsection (1), the registrar must have regard to the considerations stated in section 37 (Dealer licences, restrictions on issue—Act, s 272 (2) (e)).
(3)A permit under subsection (1)—
(a)must state the time during which the dealer is authorised to hold the arms fair; and
(b)authorises anyone exhibiting on the premises during the fair to deal with the firearms exhibited in accordance with the permit‑holder’s firearms dealer licence.
(4)In this section:
arms fair means a fair where firearms and related items are exhibited and dealt with in accordance with the permit-holder’s firearms dealer licence.
71AFirearms, permits for possession and display of mortar etc—Act, s 141 (a)
(1)A permit may be issued to authorise the possession of a mortar if the registrar is satisfied that—
(a)the applicant—
(i)is a collector of military firearms memorabilia; and
(ii)intends to display the mortar at a historical or military event or other associated or similar event; and
(b)the mortar is permanently inoperable.
(2)A permit issued under this section authorises the person named in the permit to—
(a)possess the mortar; and
(b)display the mortar at a historical or military event or other associated or similar event.
(3)It is a condition of the permit that—
(a)the mortar must be stored—
(i)in accordance with the requirements set out in section 47 (2) to (5); or
(ii)in the way stated in the permit; and
(b)when on display, the mortar must—
(i)be displayed in the way stated in the permit; and
(ii) be accompanied by a notice stating that the mortar is permanently inoperable.
(4)The permit must state the following:
(a)the name of the person authorised to possess and display a mortar under the permit;
(b)the period for which it is issued;
(c)for each mortar held under the permit—
(i)a description of the mortar; and
(ii)the conditions of display and storage for subsection (3).
(5)In this section:
mortar means a prohibited firearm mentioned in the Act, schedule 1, item 16.
Firearms, permits for possession and use of tranquilliser firearms—Act, s 141 (a)
(1)A permit may be issued for the possession and use of a tranquilliser if the possession and use is a necessary part of the applicant’s occupation.
(2)A permit issued under this section authorises each person named in the permit to use a tranquilliser firearm in the ordinary course of the person’s occupation.
(3)The permit must state—
(a)the purpose for which it is issued; and
(b)the period for which it is issued; and
(c)the name of each person authorised to possess and use a tranquilliser firearm under the permit.
(4)In this section:
tranquilliser firearm means a firearm designed for use in tranquillising, immobilising or administering vaccines or medication to an animal.
Firearms, permits for possession and use of powerheads—Act, s 141 (a)
(1)A permit may be issued for the acquisition, possession and use of a powerhead if satisfied the applicant’s acquisition, possession or use of the firearm will be for an occupational purpose or for a marine recreational purpose.
(2)A permit issued under this section authorises each person named in the permit to use the powerhead in the ordinary course of the person’s occupation.
(3)The permit must state—
(a)the purpose for which it is issued; and
(b)the period for which it is issued; and
(c)the name of each person authorised to possess and use a powerhead under the permit.
73AMinimum dimensions for firearms—Act, sch 1, item 17
(1)The following minimum dimensions are prescribed:
(a)for a firearm that is a smoothbore shotgun, a combination smoothbore shotgun and rifle or an airgun mentioned in the Act, section 250 (2) (c) (Modification of firearms)—
(i)in relation to the length of the barrel or, if it has more than 1 barrel, of the longer or longest barrel—400mm; or
(ii)in relation to the length of the stock—300mm; or
(iii)in relation to the overall length of the firearm—700mm;
(b)for a firearm that is a rifle, other than a combination smoothbore shotgun and rifle or an airgun—
(i)in relation to the length of the barrel or, if it has more than 1 barrel, of the longer or longest barrel—400mm; or
(ii)in relation to the length of the stock—300mm; or
(iii)in relation to the overall length of the firearm—800mm.
(2)However, subsection (1) does not apply in relation to a firearm if—
(a)the firearm’s owner has the registrar’s written approval under the Act, section 250 (2) to modify the firearm to have a dimension that is less than a minimum dimension mentioned in subsection (1); and
(b)the registrar is satisfied under the Act, section 251 (Approval of modifications) that the firearm has been modified in accordance with the approval.
(3)In this section:
length of the stock—see the Act, section 250 (1).
Part 16Notification and review of decisions
Meaning of reviewable decision—pt 16
In this part:
reviewable decision means a decision mentioned in schedule 1, column 3 under a provision of this regulation mentioned in column 2 in relation to the decision.
Reviewable decision notices
If a person makes a reviewable decision, the person must give a reviewable decision notice to each entity mentioned in schedule 1, column 4 in relation to the decision.
Note 1The person must also take reasonable steps to give a reviewable decision notice to any other person whose interests are affected by the decision (see ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008, s 67A).
Note 2The requirements for reviewable decision notices are prescribed under the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008.
Applications for review
The following may apply to the ACAT for a review of a reviewable decision:
(a)an entity mentioned in schedule 1, column 4 in relation to the decision;
(b)any other person whose interests are affected by the decision.
NoteIf a form is approved under the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008 for the application, the form must be used.
Schedule 1Reviewable decisions
(see pt 16)
| column 1 item | column 2 section | column 3 decision | column 4 entity |
| 1 | 25 (1) | refuse application of dealer licensee to operate at premises | person whose application refused |
| 2 | 37 (1) | refuse to issue firearms dealer licence | person refused licence |
| 3 | 57 (1) (b) | refuse to approve shooting range | person refused approval |
| 4 | 59 (2) | suspension of approval of shooting range | operator of range |
| 5 | 60 (1) or (2) | cancellation of approval of shooting range | operator of range |
| 6 | 62 (1) (b) | refuse to approve paintball range | person refused approval |
| 7 | 64 (2) | suspension of approval of paintball range | operator of range |
| 8 | 65 (1) | cancellation of approval of paintball range | operator of range |
Dictionary
(see s 3)
Note 1The Legislation Act contains definitions and other provisions relevant to this regulation.
Note 2For example, the Legislation Act, dict, pt 1 defines the following terms:
· financial year
· home address
· penalty unit (see s 133)
· police officer
· public servant
· State
· the Territory
· veterinary practitioner.
Note 3Terms used in this regulation have the same meaning that they have in the Firearms Act 1996 (see Legislation Act, s 148). For example, the following terms are defined in the Firearms Act 1996, dict:
· buy
· category A firearm
· firearm (see s 6)
· firearms dealer
· foreign acquirer
· genuine reason
· government agency
· licence
· occupier
· paintball marker
· permit
· pistol
· possession (see s 10)
· premises
· prohibited firearm (see s 7)
· prohibited pistol
· registrar
· responsible person
· sell
· shooting gallery
· use.
initial application, in relation to a category of licence, means an application from a person who does not already hold that category of licence.
operator of a range means—
(a)for a shooting range—a person who applied for approval of the range under section 56; or
(b)for a paintball range—a person who applied for approval of the range under section 61.
reserve—see the Nature Conservation Act 2014, section 169.
NoteReserves include wilderness areas, national parks, nature reserves, catchment areas and other areas of public land.
reviewable decision, for part 16 (Notification and review of decisions)—see section 74.
spare barrel—see section 66.
target pistol shooter, for part 2 (Clubs)—see section 7.
Endnotes
About the endnotes
Amending and modifying laws are annotated in the legislation history and the amendment history. Current modifications are not included in the republished law but are set out in the endnotes.
Not all editorial amendments made under the Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 are annotated in the amendment history. Full details of any amendments can be obtained from the Parliamentary Counsel’s Office.
Uncommenced amending laws are not included in the republished law. The details of these laws are underlined in the legislation history. Uncommenced expiries are underlined in the legislation history and amendment history.
If all the provisions of the law have been renumbered, a table of renumbered provisions gives details of previous and current numbering.
The endnotes also include a table of earlier republications.
Abbreviation key
A = Act NI = Notifiable instrument AF = Approved form o = order am = amended om = omitted/repealed amdt = amendment ord = ordinance AR = Assembly resolution orig = original ch = chapter par = paragraph/subparagraph CN = Commencement notice pres = present def = definition prev = previous DI = Disallowable instrument (prev...) = previously dict = dictionary pt = part disallowed = disallowed by the Legislative r = rule/subrule Assembly reloc = relocated div = division renum = renumbered exp = expires/expired R[X] = Republication No Gaz = gazette RI = reissue hdg = heading s = section/subsection IA = Interpretation Act 1967 sch = schedule ins = inserted/added sdiv = subdivision LA = Legislation Act 2001 SL = Subordinate law LR = legislation register sub = substituted LRA = Legislation (Republication) Act 1996 underlining = whole or part not commenced mod = modified/modification or to be expired
Legislation history
Firearms Regulation 2008 SL2008-55
notified LR 22 December 2008
s 1, s 2 commenced 22 December 2008 (LA s 75 (1))remainder commenced 15 January 2009 (s 2 and see Firearms Amendment Act 2008 A2008-25, s 2 and LA s 79)
as amended by
Firearms Amendment Regulation 2009 (No 1) SL2009-13
notified LR 6 April 2009
s 1, s 2 commenced 6 April 2009 (LA s 75 (1))
remainder commenced 7 April 2009 (s 2)Justice and Community Safety Legislation Amendment Act 2009 (No 2) A2009-19 pt 8
notified LR 1 September 2009
s 1, s 2 commenced 1 September 2009 (LA s 75 (1))pt 8 commenced 29 September 2009 (s 2)
Statute Law Amendment Act 2009 A2009-20 sch 3 pt 3.32
notified LR 1 September 2009
s 1, s 2 commenced 1 September 2009 (LA s 75 (1))sch 3 pt 3.32 commenced 22 September 2009 (s 2)
Justice and Community Safety Legislation Amendment Act 2009 (No 3) A2009-44 sch 1 pt 1.11
notified LR 24 November 2009
s 1, s 2 commenced 24 November 2009 (LA s 75 (1))sch 1 pt 1.11 commenced 25 November 2009 (s 2 (2) (a))
Statute Law Amendment Act 2009 (No 2) A2009-49 sch 3 pt 3.31
notified LR 26 November 2009
s 1, s 2 commenced 26 November 2009 (LA s 75 (1))sch 3 pt 3.31 commenced 17 December 2009 (s 2)
Business Names Registration (Transition to Commonwealth) Act 2012 A2012-2 sch 2 pt 2.2
notified LR 28 February 2012
s 1, s 2 commenced 28 February 2012 (LA s 75 (1))sch 2 pt 2.2 commenced 28 May 2012 (s 2 (2))
Firearms Amendment Regulation 2013 (No 1) SL2013-29 pt 3
notified LR 25 November 2013
s 1, s 2 commenced 25 November 2013 (LA s 75 (1))
s 9 commenced 10 March 2014 (s 2 (2) and CN2014-3)
pt 3 remainder commenced 26 November 2013 (s 2 (1))Nature Conservation Act 2014 A2014‑59 sch 2 pt 2.6
notified LR 11 December 2014
s 1, s 2 commenced 11 December 2014 (LA s 75 (1))
sch 2 pt 2.6 commenced 11 June 2015 (s 2 (1) and LA s 79)Veterinary Surgeons Act 2015 A2015‑29 sch 2 pt 2.3
notified LR 20 August 2015
s 1, s 2 commenced 20 August 2015 (LA s 75 (1))sch 2 pt 2.3 commenced 1 December 2015 (s 2 (1) and CN2015-22)
Spent Convictions (Historical Homosexual Convictions Extinguishment) Amendment Act 2015 A2015‑45 sch 1 pt 1.6
notified LR 6 November 2015
s 1, s 2 commenced 6 November 2015 (LA s 75 (1))sch 1 pt 1.6 commenced 7 November 2015 (s 2)
Public Sector Management Amendment Act 2016 A2016-52 sch 1 pt 1.26
notified LR 25 August 2016
s 1, s 2 commenced 25 August 2016 (LA s 75 (1))
sch 1 pt 1.26 commenced 1 September 2016 (s 2)Firearms Amendment Regulation 2016 (No 1) SL2016-28
notified LR 8 September 2016
s 1, s 2 commenced 8 September 2016 (LA s 75 (1))
remainder commenced 9 September 2016 (s 2)Firearms and Prohibited Weapons Legislation Amendment Act 2018 A2018-1 pt 3
notified LR 28 February 2018
s 1, s 2 commenced 28 February 2018 (LA s 75 (1))
ss 19-24 commenced 1 March 2018 (s 2 (1))
pt 3 remainder commenced 28 August 2018 (s 2 (2))Veterinary Practice Act 2018 A2018-32 sch 3 pt 3.7
notified LR 30 August 2018
s 1, s 2 commenced 30 August 2018 (LA s 75 (1))
sch 3 pt 3.7 commenced 21 December 2018 (s 2 and CN2018-12)Firearms Amendment Regulation 2020 (No 1) SL2020-1
notified LR 9 January 2020
s 1, s 2 commenced 9 January 2020 (LA s 75 (1))
remainder commenced 10 January 2020 (s 2)Firearms Legislation Amendment Act 2020 A2020-19 pt 3
notified LR 27 May 2020
s 1, s 2 commenced 27 May 2020 (LA s 75 (1))
pt 3 commenced 28 May 2020 (s 2)Firearms Amendment Regulation 2020 (No 2) SL2020-30
notified LR 17 August 2020
s 1, s 2 commenced 17 August 2020 (LA s 75 (1))
remainder commenced 18 August 2020 (s 2)Crimes (Policing) Legislation Amendment Act 2022 A2022-2 pt 5
notified LR 30 March 2022
s 1, s 2 commenced 30 March 2022 (LA s 75 (1))
pt 5 commenced 30 March 2023 (s 2 (2))Biosecurity Legislation Amendment Act 2024 A2024-11 sch 2 pt 2.6
notified LR 19 April 2024
s 1, s 2 commenced 19 April 2024 (LA s 75 (1))
sch 2 pt 2.6 commenced 15 May 2025 (s 2 and see Biosecurity Act 2023 A2023-50, s 2 (2))Firearms Amendment Regulation 2024 (No 1) SL2024-23
notified LR 4 September 2024
s 1, s 2 commenced 4 September 2024 (LA s 75 (1))
remainder commenced 5 September (s 2)Amendment history
Commencement
s 2om LA s 89 (4)
Dictionary
s 3am A2014‑59 amdt 2.17
Not firearms—Act, s 6 (2) (a)
s 6am A2018‑1 ss 19-21
Collectors clubs, conditions of approval—Act, s 40 (5)
s 11am A2015‑45 amdt 1.6
Category C licences, target shooting—Act, s 53 (3)
s 13am A2018‑1 s 22
om SL2024‑23 s 4
Category C licence, prohibited firearm used for sport or target shooting, offences—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
s 14 hdgsub SL2024‑23 s 5
s 14am SL2024‑23 s 6
Adult licence applications, information and documents—Act, s 54 (2) (b) and (c)
s 15am A2014‑59 amdt 2.18, amdt 2.19; A2015‑29 amdt 2.32; A2016‑52 amdt 1.83; A2018‑32 amdt 3.12; SL2024‑23 s 7; items renum R24 LA; A2024‑11 amdt 2.13
Government agency responsible for vertebrate pest animal control—Act, s 61
s 16sub A2024‑11 amdt 2.14
Category C licences, genuine reasons—Act, s 64 (a)
s 16Ains SL2013‑29 s 5
sub SL2024‑23 s 8
Application of s 16A (b) and (c) to previously issued category C licences
s 16Bins SL2024‑23 s 8
Adult licences, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
s 17am SL2013‑29 s 6
Adult licence condition, category C or H licences—Act, s 73 (1) (g)
s 20 hdgsub SL2013‑29 s 7
s 20am SL2013‑29 s 7; SL2024‑23 s 9
Composite entity licences, stated information and documents for applications—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
s 29am A2012‑2 amdt 2.2
Composite entity, evidence of special need for category C licence—Act, s 272 (2) (o)
s 30 hdgnote am A2018‑1 s 23
Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for business—Act, s 116 (1) (h)
s 32am A2018‑1 s 24
Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for employment—Act, s 116 (1) (h)
s 33am A2018‑1 s 24
Temporary recognition of interstate licences, for possession or use of firearm—Act, s 136 (1) (a) (ii)
s 35am A2024‑11 amdt 2.15; pars renum R25 LA
Register of firearms, other particulars—Act, s 157
s 41am SL2013‑29 s 8
Storage of more than 10 category A or category B firearms—Act, s 180 (3)
s 44Ains A2018‑1 s 25
Storage of not more than 10 category A or category B firearms, collectors—Act, s 180 (3)
s 46 hdgsub A2018‑1 s 26
s 46am A2018‑1 s 27
Composite entity licence conditions, category H licences for safe storage of firearms by security organisations—Act, s 182 (2) (a) and (c)
s 47Ains A2022‑2 s 40
Transportation
div 11.3 hdgins SL2016‑28 s 4
Transportation of firearms, reasonable steps in storing—Act, s 180 (3)
s 52Ains SL2016‑28 s 4
am A2024‑11 amdt 2.16, amdt 2.17
Safety requirements for transporting prohibited firearms or pistols—Act, s 234
s 54sub SL2016‑28 s 5
Application for approval of shooting range
s 56am A2012‑2 amdt 2.3
Application for approval of approved paintball range
s 61am A2012‑2 amdt 2.4
Sporting organisations—Act, s 23, sch 2, pt 2.3, items 2 and 3
s 67am A2020-19 s 8; pars renum R20 LA
Sporting (biathlon or modern pentathlon) organisations—Act, s 23, sch 2, pt 2.3, items 4 to 10
s 67Ains A2020-19 s 9
Minimum participation rates for members of approved clubs—Act, dict, def active, par (a)
s 68am SL2013‑29 s 9
Firearms, permits for possession and display of mortar etc—Act, s 141 (a)
s 71Ains SL2020‑1 s 4
Firearms, permits for possession and use of powerheads—Act, s 141 (a)
s 73am A2009‑20 amdt 3.78
Minimum dimensions for firearms—Act, sch 1, item 17
s 73Ains SL2009‑13 s 4
om A2009‑19 s 31
ins SL2013‑29 s 10
Transitional
pt 17exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Definitions—pt 17
s 77exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Pre-commencement Act shooting ranges
s 78exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Pre-commencement Act paint pellet ranges
s 79exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Pre-ACAT reviewable decisions
s 80exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Transitional—modification of Act, pt 20, s 415 (2)
s 81om A2009‑44 amdt 1.27
Expiry—pt 17
s 82exp 15 January 2010 (s 82)
Repeals
pt 18 hdgom LA s 89 (3)
Repeals
s 83om LA s 89 (3)
COVID-19 emergency response
pt 19 hdgins SL2020‑30 s 4
exp 29 September 2023 (s 86)
Definitions—pt 19
s 84ins SL2020‑30 s 4
exp 29 September 2023 (s 86)
Certain requirements taken to be complied with in relation to COVID-19 emergency
s 85ins SL2020‑30 s 4
exp 29 September 2023 (s 86)
Expiry—pt 19
s 86ins SL2020‑30 s 4
exp 29 September 2023 (s 86)
Dictionary
dictam SL2009‑13 s 5; A2009‑19 s 32; A2009‑49 amdt 3.71; A2016‑52 amdt 1.84; SL2016‑28 s 6; A2018‑32 amdt 3.13; SL2020‑1 s 5, s 6
def home address om A2009‑49 amdt 3.72
def reserve ins A2014‑59 amdt 2.20
def reserved area om A2014‑59 amdt 2.21
def reviewable decision ins A2009‑20 amdt 3.79
Earlier republications
Some earlier republications were not numbered. The number in column 1 refers to the publication order.
Since 12 September 2001 every authorised republication has been published in electronic pdf format on the ACT legislation register. A selection of authorised republications have also been published in printed format. These republications are marked with an asterisk (*) in column 1. Electronic and printed versions of an authorised republication are identical.
Republication No and date Effective Last amendment made by Republication for R1
15 Jan 200915 Jan 2009–
6 Apr 2009not amended new regulation R2
7 Apr 20097 Apr 2009–
21 Sept 2009SL2009‑13 amendments by SL2009‑13 R3
22 Sept 200922 Sept 2009–
28 Sept 2009A2009‑20 amendments by A2009‑20 R4
29 Sept 200929 Sept 2009–
24 Nov 2009A2009‑20 amendments by A2009‑19 R5
25 Nov 200925 Nov 2009–
16 Dec 2009A2009‑44 amendments by A2009‑44 R6
17 Dec 200917 Dec 2009–
15 Jan 2010A2009‑49 amendments by A2009‑49 R7
16 Jan 201016 Jan 2010–
27 May 2012A2009‑49 commenced expiry R8
28 May 201228 May 2012–
25 Nov 2013A2012‑2 amendments by A2012‑2 R9
26 Nov 201326 Nov 2013–
9 Mar 2014SL2013‑29 amendments by SL2013‑29 R10
10 Mar 201410 Mar 2014–
10 June 2015SL2013‑29 amendments by SL2013‑29 R11
11 June 201511 June 2015–
6 Nov 2015A2014‑59 amendments by A2014‑59 R12
7 Nov 20157 Nov 2015–
30 Nov 2015A2015-45 amendments by A2015-45 R13
1 Dec 20151 Dec 2015–
31 Aug 2016A2015-45 amendments by A2018‑32 R14
1 Sept 20161 Sept 2016–
8 Sept 2016A2016‑52 amendments by A2016‑52 R15
9 Sept 20169 Sept 2016–
28 Feb 2018SL2016‑28 amendments by SL2016‑28 R16
1 Mar 20181 Mar 2018–
27 Aug 2018A2018‑1 amendments by A2018‑1 R17
28 Aug 201828 Aug 2018–
20 Dec 2018A2018‑1 amendments by A2018‑1 R18
21 Dec 201821 Dec 2018–
9 Jan 2020A2018‑32 amendments by A2018‑32 R19
10 Jan 202010 Jan 2020–
27 May 2020SL2020-1 amendments by SL2020-1 R20
28 May 202028 May 2020–
17 Aug 2020A2020‑19 amendments by A2020‑19 R21
18 Aug 202018 Aug 2020–
29 Mar 2023SL2020‑30 amendments by SL2020‑30 R22
30 Mar 202330 Mar 2023–
29 Sept 2023A2022‑2 amendments by A2022‑2 R23
30 Sept 202330 Sept 2023–
4 Sept 2024A2022‑2 expiry of provisions (pt 19) R24
5 Sept 20245 Sept 2024–
14 May 2025SL2024‑23 amendments by SL2024‑23
0
0
0