What Weapons Are Legal in Victoria? A Complete Guide to State Laws and Regulations
Understanding what weapons are legal in Victoria is essential for residents and visitors to ensure compliance with state regulations and contribute to public safety.
As experienced criminal law specialists, SLKQ Lawyers have seen firsthand the consequences of not staying informed about Victoria’s weapon laws. With over 18 years in the industry, we’re here to provide a clear, authoritative overview of what weapons are legal in Victoria and how these laws have evolved over time.
Victoria has a complex history with weapon regulation, particularly in the aftermath of major incidents like the Port Arthur massacre in 1996. This tragic event marked a turning point in Australia’s approach to firearms, leading to significant changes in what weapons are legal in Victoria and across the country.
The Port Arthur Massacre and Its Impact
On April 28, 1996, a gunman opened fire at the Port Arthur historic site in Tasmania, claiming the lives of 35 people and wounding 23 others. This devastating massacre shocked the nation and sparked a swift response from the Australian government.
In the wake of the tragedy, then-Prime Minister John Howard introduced the National Firearms Agreement (NFA), a comprehensive set of reforms designed to tighten firearm laws across Australia. The NFA had a profound impact on what weapons are legal in Victoria and other states, introducing stricter licensing requirements, a ban on semi-automatic rifles and shotguns, and mandatory buybacks of newly prohibited weapons.
In response, the National Firearms Agreement (NFA) was introduced, leading to:
- Banning of Semi-Automatic and Automatic Firearms: These weapons were prohibited for civilian use, with limited exceptions.
- Mandatory Buyback Scheme: Over 650,000 firearms were surrendered and destroyed.
- Uniform Licensing and Registration: All firearm owners were required to undergo background checks, complete safety training, and provide a genuine reason for firearm ownership.
These measures significantly reduced gun-related deaths and mass shootings in Australia.
The implementation of the NFA led to the surrender of approximately 650,000 firearms nationwide through buybacks and amnesties. This significant reduction in the number of firearms in circulation played a key role in shaping what weapons are legal in Victoria today.
What Weapons Are Legal in Victoria?
So, what weapons are legal in Victoria under the current laws? The answer depends on a range of factors, including the type of weapon, its intended use, and the individual’s licensing and registration status. In Victoria, the possession and use of weapons are strictly regulated. Understanding what weapons are legal in Victoria is crucial to ensure compliance with state laws.
- Firearms: Certain types of firearms, such as rifles and shotguns, are legal in Victoria for approved purposes like hunting, sport shooting, and agricultural use. However, these firearms are subject to strict licensing and storage requirements.
- Bows and crossbows: Bows and crossbows are legal in Victoria for recreational and competitive shooting but are subject to size restrictions and licensing requirements in some cases.
- Knives: Certain knives, like kitchen knives, multi-tools, and pocket knives, are legal in Victoria for everyday use. However, it’s illegal to carry knives or other bladed weapons without a lawful excuse.
- It’s important to note that many other weapons, such as explosive devices, tasers, and nunchakus, are prohibited in Victoria unless the individual has a specific lawful reason for possessing them.
- Machetes: Victoria is set to introduce Australia’s first ban on machetes, classifying them as prohibited weapons from 1 September 2025. This legislative change follows a rise in violent incidents involving machetes, such as aggravated burglaries and assaults. While the law has passed Parliament, and there is some discussion about implementing it earlier, the current commencement date remains unchanged. Exemptions will apply for legitimate uses, including agriculture and hunting.
- Pepper Spray and Tasers: Restricted to law enforcement and certain security personnel.
The Role of Licensing and Registration
Victoria enforces a stringent licensing and registration system for firearms:
- Licensing: Applicants must undergo background checks, complete safety training, and provide a genuine reason for firearm ownership.
- Registration: All firearms must be registered with the police, and owners must comply with storage and transport regulations.
- Renewal and Compliance: Licenses must be renewed periodically, and compliance with all regulations is mandatory.
Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Licensing and registration play a critical role in determining what weapons are legal in Victoria. To legally possess a firearm in Victoria, individuals must hold a valid firearms licence and register their firearms with the police.
Obtaining a firearms licence involves meeting strict eligibility criteria, including being 18 years or older, completing firearms safety training, and undergoing a thorough background check. Licence applicants must also demonstrate a genuine reason for owning a firearm, such as hunting or sport shooting.
Registering firearms helps the police keep track of who owns what weapons and ensures that firearms are stored safely and securely. Failing to register a firearm or comply with storage requirements can result in criminal charges and the cancellation of a firearms licence.
The Debate on Gun Control and Reform
Despite the significant changes to what weapons are legal in Victoria following the Port Arthur massacre, the debate on gun control and reform continues. Some advocacy groups argue that the current laws are too restrictive and infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens, while others push for even tighter regulations to further reduce the risk of firearms violence.
One area of concern in recent years has been the emergence of “ghost guns” – unregistered, untraceable firearms that individuals can assemble at home using parts purchased online. These weapons pose a significant challenge for police and lawmakers, as they circumvent the licensing and registration requirements that apply to traditional firearms.
Conclusion
Facing firearm or weapon offences in Victoria can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the support of experienced legal professionals, you can protect your rights and build a strong defence to achieve the best possible outcome.
To schedule a consultation with our experienced lawyers, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us using the following methods:
Phone: Call our phone at (03) 9923 7727 to speak directly with one of our lawyers. Our lines are available Monday – Friday at 9am – 5pm to ensure you can access the help you need, whenever you need it.
In-Person: Our office is located at 1105, 530 Little Collins Street, Melbourne 3000. Book an appointment and visit us in person to discuss your case in a confidential setting. A Zoom meeting can also be arranged if you are unable to physically make it into the office.
We’re dedicated to supporting you through every stage of the legal process, providing the clarity and expertise you need. If you’re facing armed robbery charges in Victoria, don’t go through it alone. Contact us today. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of your case with confidence and care.
Disclaimer: The information provided is of a general nature and not tailored to your individual circumstances. Please get in touch for independent legal advice specific to your situation.
Sources
- Australian Gun Safety Alliance. (n.d.). Australian Gun Safety Alliance.
- Changes to the law in Victoria: expanded police powers and machetes as prohibited weapons. (n.d.).
- Chapman, S., Alpers, P., & Jones, M. (2016). Association between gun law Reforms and Intentional Firearm Deaths in Australia, 1979-2013. JAMA, 316(3), 291.
- corporateName=Department of Industry, Science and Resources. (n.d.). ABLIS | Enabling business. Australian Business Licence and Information Service.
- Firearms licensing. (2025a, May 12).
- Firearms licensing. (2025b, May 12).
- HISTORY.com Editors. (2025, January 24). 35 killed in Australia’s Port Arthur Massacre | April 28, 1996 | HISTORY. HISTORY.
- Juanola, M. P. (2022, November 3). ‘Ghost guns’ and 3D printing: Secret arsenals and grey market fuel Victoria’s firearm problem. The Age.
- National Museum of Australia; c=AU; o=Commonwealth of Australia; ou=National Museum of Australia. (n.d.). Port Arthur massacre. National Museum of Australia.
- Renew your firearm licence. (2025, May 12).
- Victorian Government. (1996). National Firearms Agreement.
- Weapons definitions. (2025, February 3).