No, airsoft guns are illegal in Australia under the National Firearms Agreement (NFA) and state/territory laws, classified as prohibited weapons without special permits. The Firearms Act 1996 (Cth) and state equivalents (e.g., Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 in NSW) explicitly ban their possession, sale, or use. Exceptions exist for law enforcement, military, or licensed collectors under stringent conditions, but civilian ownership remains prohibited. Recent 2026 compliance shifts by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) have intensified enforcement, targeting online sales and importation.
Key Regulations for Airsoft Guns in Australia
- Prohibited Classification: Airsoft guns are deemed “imitation firearms” under the NFA and state laws, requiring immediate surrender or destruction if discovered. The Australian Border Force (ABF) seizes unlicensed imports at customs.
- State-Specific Enforcement: Jurisdictions like Victoria (Control of Weapons Act 1990) and Queensland (Weapons Act 1990) impose penalties up to 10 years imprisonment for possession. Local police forces conduct periodic compliance checks.
- Permit Exemptions: Only licensed collectors (e.g., under Firearms Act 1996 in ACT) may possess airsoft guns for historical or display purposes, subject to storage and transport regulations enforced by state police.