Firearms Importation

Regulation 4F of the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations), prohibits the importation of firearms and firearms parts and accessories unless those articles are articles for which a permission to import has been granted in accordance with Schedule 6 of the Regulations. These import restrictions reflect the past agreement by all Australian governments that access to firearms be restricted to those with a genuine need to own, possess or use a firearm.

The Regulations also set out the requirements for the importation of firearms, firearm accessories, firearm parts, firearms magazines and ammunition.

The importation of certain firearms requires the written permission of the Attorney-General or delegate. In order to obtain this permission, importers must first satisfy one of the relevant import tests.

To confirm what import test will apply to a potential import you should contact the Firearms Section at firearms@ag.gov.au or (02) 6141 2730. The Section will arrange for the articles you wish to import to be classified and will then provide you advice on what import tests apply.

For more information about the process of importing firearms to Australia, please download a copy of the General Factsheet:

The fact sheets below contain information about import requirements for firearms and related articles. Some of the less common import tests are not addressed by a fact sheet. The Firearms Section can provide further advice where necessary.

Please note that when lodging your application it will take four to six working weeks to process an application, provided that all the relevant documentation is supplied in the first instance. Import permission must be obtained before you bring the articles to Australia.