Weapons and Firearms Offences
Weapons and firearms offences involve allegations relating to the possession, use, storage, manufacture or supply of weapons or firearms without proper authority. Many people want to understand how licensing rules apply, what constitutes unlawful possession, how technical requirements are assessed and what evidence may be relevant when responding to these allegations.
This page outlines the general issues that may arise and explains how Law Tram provides a secure and obligation-free way to connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can discuss your circumstances confidentially.
Charged with a weapons or firearms offence?
Australia has strict laws regulating the possession, use, sale and importation of weapons and firearms. These laws vary by state and territory, but even unintentional breaches can result in criminal charges.
Many offences carry mandatory penalties, including jail terms and licence bans.
You can be charged for possessing or carrying a prohibited weapon without a permit, having an unregistered or unsecured firearm, or misusing a legally held weapon. In some cases, a weapon may not seem dangerous (such as a pocketknife, slingshot or gel blaster), but it may still be illegal under state legislation.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can help you understand the charges, explore defences and protect your rights.
Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with weapons and firearms offences, including:
- Possession or use of prohibited weapons
- Unlicensed or unregistered firearm offences
- Unsafe storage or carriage of firearms
- Carrying or using a knife in a public place
- Gel blasters, tasers, imitation guns or other restricted items
- Firearms licence breaches and suspensions
- Importation offences and Commonwealth charges
- Applying for sentence mitigation or discharge without conviction
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers who understand weapons and firearms matters
- Confidential platform to outline your situation
- Guidance on licences, documents or evidence that may be relevant
- No obligation to engage any lawyer you speak with
- Lawyers help you understand the legal considerations involved
How it works
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Legal information only – not a substitute for advice
This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Criminal charges can carry serious penalties and strict time limits. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner as early as possible, especially before speaking to police or attending court.
Law Tram does not provide emergency legal support or crisis response services and does not assist in finding legal representation for minors.
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in weapons and firearms offences. Whether your situation involves questions about licensing, storage rules, prohibited items, unintended possession, transport requirements or disputes about classification of a weapon, our platform helps you access tailored legal guidance before you decide how to proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Australian states require separate permits for different categories of firearms and prohibit certain weapons altogether.
In some states, yes. They may be treated as prohibited weapons depending on appearance and how they’re used or stored.
Penalties range from fines and licence disqualification to imprisonment, especially for repeat or serious offences.
Possibly. A lawyer may help you access diversion, a good behaviour bond or non-conviction order depending on your record and the circumstances.
That can still result in charges. A lawyer can assist with showing lack of intent and minimising penalties.
Licence records, storage information, photographs, messages, police notices, receipts and a clear timeline can help a lawyer outline the general issues that may arise.
Yes. A lawyer can outline the general rules that determine what type of item it is considered to be and whether a particular licence applies.
Is it useful to ask a lawyer about issues like constructive possession or shared access to property?
Yes. A lawyer can explain how access, control, knowledge and ownership are usually assessed when determining whether a person is legally in possession of a weapon or firearm.