CHAPTER CONTENTS

Last updated 1 September 2021

pdf_downloadWhat is a Weapon?
Weapon Licences
Who May Apply for a Weapon Licence
Police Powers Investigating a Firearm Offence

The possession and use of firearms and dangerous weapons in Queensland is controlled by the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) (Weapons Act). The overriding objective of the Weapons Act is to secure public and individual safety by controlling weapons possession and storage, and preventing their misuse. The Weapons Act:

  • prohibits the possession and use of automatic and semi-automatic weapons, except in special circumstances
  • establishes a licensing and registration system for firearms
  • requires people to have genuine reasons for owning or using firearms
  • regulates the sale of firearms
  • establishes a system for safe storage and carriage of firearms.

The controls on weapons in the Weapons Act do not apply to members of the armed forces, customs and corrective services, the Australian Protective Service, or state or federal police officers. Some exemptions also apply to primary producers.