Yes, blank firing guns are legal in Australia but tightly controlled under state/territory laws and the National Firearms Agreement (NFA). Their use requires compliance with local licensing, storage, and operational mandates, with recent 2026 reforms tightening oversight for imitation firearms.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in Australia
- Licensing and Registration: Ownership requires a valid firearms license, issued by state/territory police under the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW) or equivalent. Unregistered devices are prohibited, with penalties up to $22,000 or imprisonment.
- Storage Requirements: Blank firing guns must be stored in a locked container, separate from ammunition, adhering to Firearms Regulations 2017 (Vic) or local equivalents. Audits by state police are mandatory.
- Use Restrictions: Public discharge is banned in most jurisdictions, except for approved reenactments or film productions under Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth). Misuse may trigger anti-hoon or public safety laws.
State-Specific Variations:
- Victoria: Blank guns fall under Category D if resembling real firearms, requiring additional permits.
- Queensland: Must display an orange tip and comply with Weapons Regulation 2016 (Qld).
- Western Australia: Mandates a “genuine reason” for possession, such as historical reenactment.
2026 Compliance Shifts: Amendments to the NFA will classify blank guns as “imitation firearms” if they lack visible color coding, increasing penalties for unauthorized use. Police now cross-reference serial numbers with national databases to curb illegal trafficking.