Quick Facts Regarding Weapon Laws in Queensland

In Queensland, the Weapons Act 1990 regulates the ownership and use of weapons. If you have a weapon in your possession for self-defence purposes, it is important to be aware of what these laws are so that you can avoid legal problems.  

Here are some key facts about Queensland’s weapon laws. 

A weapon’s licence is required by anyone in the state who wishes to own or utilize a gun or certain types of knife. 

The most popular weapon licence in Queensland is a “firearms licence,” which may be used for leisure shooting or target shooting, as well as some occupational shooters. Hence, a licence is required if you want to use your firearm for hunting or sport shooting. 

Are Slingshots Legal in Queensland? 

The use of slingshots is not illegal in Queensland but it may be considered an aggressive or dangerous method for gunning down wildlife. There are certain limitations on when and where you can shoot these types of homemade weapons so make sure to follow all local laws before using one. 

Are Crossbows Legal in Queensland? 

The laws regarding the use of crossbows vary depending on where you live in Australia. In some states, like Queensland for example; it is illegal to own or sell one without first obtaining a permit from their local council which can be done only if there are certain conditions met such as having proof of current membership of an approved Queensland Weapons Club for sports or target shooting. 

Are Throwing Knives Legal in Queensland? 

Knives are legal in Queensland unless they’re designed as an offensive weapon.  

Section 51 of the Weapons Act 1990 states that: 

• For example, a dairy farmer may carry a knife on his or her belt while working in primary production. 
• A knife might be worn on a scout’s belt as part of the uniform. 
• A knife may be worn as an accessory by a pipe band participant. 
• A fisherman may carry a knife for use when fishing. 
• A knife collector may display his or her collection at a carnival or other public event. 
• A knife may be used to prepare or cut food in a restaurant in a public place, at a picnic in a park, or while having one. 
• A pen knife or swiss army knife may be carried for general usage. 

It’s also a good excuse to carry a knife in public for genuine religious reasons, such as a Sikh Kirpan. It is, however, not an acceptable explanation to have a knife for religious reasons on school premises. 

Are Gel Blasters Legal in Queensland? 

The answer is yes, as long they are used correctly and legally. Gel blasting devices can be purchased from any hardware or construction supply store for residential use only by people with a license to operate them according to the specific regulations set forth by the Queensland government. 

Types of Weapons Licence 

Before you can apply, you’ll need to choose the right sort of weapons license for your needs. This will be determined by the sort of guns or weapons you wish to own and use. It will also be determined by your true purpose for needing such items.  

Firearms Licence  

This is the most popular form of weapons license in Queensland. It allows you to own and utilize single-shot or manual repeating rifles and shotguns. Sports or target shooting, recreational or occupational reasons are all legitimate reasons for a firearms licence. 

Concealable Firearms Licence 

A concealable weapons licence allows you to have and use air guns, centre-fire pistols, black powder or rim-fire pistols (category H) that are under 75cm in length. Sports or target shooting, primary production, and some job requirements are examples of genuine causes for a concealable firearms license.  

Minor’s Licence 

A minor’s licence can only be given to someone between the ages of 11 and 17. Once you reach the age of 18, you must apply for an adult license since your minor’s licence will no longer be valid. 

A minor’s licence allows you to own and use rifles, shotguns, and pistols (categories A, B, C, and H only). Sports or target shooting or primary production on rural land are examples of genuine reasons for a minor’s license. Minor’s permits may also allow you to utilize a category C weapon for clay target shooting. 

Miscellaneous Weapons Licence 

A miscellaneous weapons license allows you to have and utilise crossbows, some knives, and martial arts weapons, as well as body armour (E and M categories). A miscellaneous weapons licence is required to possess and use a crossbow for sports or recreational shooting, as well as historical, military re-enactments, and martial arts.  

Blank-fire Firearms Licence 

Blank-fire gun licences are only allowed to be used for two purposes: starting sporting events or putting on theatrical shows. 

Security Licence (Guard) – Employee 

A security guard is someone who patrols, protects, watches over, or protects their own or someone else’s property as a private business owner or employee of a security organization.  

Security Licence (Guard) – Sole Provider 

You must submit the following documents if you are applying for this type of licence:  

• Proof of occupation – Security provider licence  
• Enterprise type details 
• Council Approval 
• Storage Facility 
• Supporting letter – Business plan 
• Proof of business address 
• Company client list 

You should also include evidence of your genuine reason. 

Security Licence (Guard) – Business 

You must submit the following supporting documents, as well as documentation to verify your true purpose: 

• Proof of occupation – Security provider licence 
• Enterprise type details 
• Evidence of Property Protection 
• Business Activities List 
• Storage Facility  
• Copy of your Business Plan with Business Name 

Firearms Licence (Instructor) 

The firearms licence (Instructor) allows you to have and use any types of guns and weapons as part of the training for an authorized safety course. You must be a member of or manage a registered education company and have completed courses appropriate to the sort of training you offer in order to apply for this license.  

Collector’s Licence (Weapons) 

Collectable firearms or weapons must have obvious and significant commemorative, historic, thematic or investment value. In this category, you can obtain two (2) sorts of licences:  

• A weapons collector’s licence (guns and weapons) is for a person who collects firearms and weapons. This license does not allow the licensee to fire, aim, or utilize any registered guns or weapons.  
• A collector’s licence (heirloom) is for a person who has been given one or more weapons as part of their inheritance. The weapon must be permanently deactivated and only one weapon can be registered to this license. 

Visitor’s Licence 

A visitor’s licence allows you to carry a gun while you are in Queensland as a tourist. If you come from another Australian state or territory, you do not need a visitor’s visa, as long as the weapons are used in the same manner as they would be if you were staying there permanently. 

Are You Ready to Apply? 

In order to acquire a weapons license in Queensland, you must: 

1. Find out if you qualify. 

2. Have a genuine purpose for wanting the license. 

3. Have access to a secure weapon safe. 

4. In the year before you apply, you must complete an authorized weapons safety course. 

5. Provide the necessary supporting documents as requested throughout the application procedure. 

6. Prove your identity. 

7. Pay the required fees. 

8. Visit a local Australia Post office to show your identification documents and have your photo taken. 

More information about the process to apply. 

Online applications for a weapons license are now available. During the application procedure, you must submit all required supporting papers. 

What’s A Permit To Acquire? 

You can apply for a permit to acquire a weapon (PTA) once you’ve obtained a weapons’ licence—or have applied for one. 

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a permit to acquire a gun, so a minors’ firearms licence will not be accepted for PTA applications. Minors are not permitted to purchase or register weapons in Queensland. 

You can acquire a PTA through the paper form (PDF, 935KB) or online using the online application form. 

The cooling off period for PTA applications is 28 days from the date the application is submitted. 

Weapon laws in Queensland can be tricky to navigate. If you are involved in a legal case involving weapon laws, feel free to contact Bouchier Khan further guidance.