Firearm Offences

Firearms offences in Victoria are treated very seriously and can carry significant penalties, including substantial fines, the loss of your firearms licence, lengthy firearms prohibition orders and, in more serious cases, imprisonment.

If you are not appropriately licensed, it is a criminal offence to possess many types of firearms, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and any device that has been designed or adapted to discharge a projectile or missile. It is also an offence to possess ammunition without the appropriate licence or lawful authority.

Many people are surprised to learn that gel blasters, often marketed as children’s toys or recreational items, are generally classified as imitation firearms or prohibited weapons in Victoria. Unlike some other Australian states, gel blasters cannot generally be legally possessed in Victoria without the appropriate authorisation, and possessing one can result in criminal charges.

The penalties for firearms offences, prohibited weapons offences, and ammunition offences vary significantly depending on the nature of the allegation, whether the firearm was registered, the type of weapon involved, your licensing status, and your criminal history. Some offences can be dealt with by way of a fine, while others carry mandatory consequences and the possibility of imprisonment.

If you have been charged with possessing an unlicensed firearm, possessing ammunition without a licence, possessing a prohibited weapon, or another firearms offence in Victoria, it is important to obtain legal advice before attending court or participating in a police record of interview. Wilkinson Lawyers regularly represents clients charged with firearms, weapons, and prohibited weapons offences throughout Victoria and can advise you on the available defences, likely penalties, and the best strategy for achieving the most favourable outcome.