The law regulating the use of weapons in Queensland is the Weapons Act 1990. Many gun owners would be aware of the Howard government’s overhaul of weapons regulations in Australia as a result of the Port Arthur Massacre in 1996.
Living in regional Queensland means that a large majority of us grew up on cane farms and cattle properties and more often than not, around guns.
It is important that people are aware of the penalties which can be imposed if you do not hold a licence to possess a firearm or you hold a licence and are in possession of unregistered firearm.
Licensing
A licence authorises a licensee to possess and use a weapon or category of weapon endorsed on the licence for any lawful purpose.
A licence can be issued to either an individual or a body provided they meet the requirements under the legislation and there are several types of licences which an individual or a body may apply for.
When licences are issued, they can be subject to certain conditions under the regulations and it is important that licence holders are aware of the conditions on their licence.
Penalties
Under the legislation, a person must not unlawfully possess a weapon, depending on the category of the weapon and the amount of weapons in your possession, the penalties can include a fine and even a period of imprisonment.
If you are a licence holder and are found in possession of an unregistered weapon you could face a fine of up to $14,580.00.
A Court can also require you to forfeit the firearm and any ammunition associated with the firearm to the Crown.
The consequences for breaches of the Weapons Act and associated regulations are serious. It is important that if you are charged with a weapons offence you seek legal advice as soon as possible.
If you are charged with a weapons related offence, would like assistance in preparing an application for a weapons licence or have been denied a weapons licence and would like to have your application reviewed, please do not hesitate to contact our team of experience solicitors.
