Apply and pay for a firearms licence

Section 9 Firearms Regulations 1974 places an obligation on the holder of any firearm licence or permit to provide a written notice in any of the following events:

• to new place of residence
• relocated within the original place of residence
• an additional cabinet has been installed in original place of residence

The first two changes can only be made by the completion and submission of a Licensing Services Change of Personal Details form (PDF, 338KB).

If a licence holder changes the location of their firearms storage, they are required to submit a new Form 22 Storage Statement (PDF, 420KB) detailing their new storage address and installation.

Any change of personal details and/or storage location must be submitted to Licensing Services within 21 days.

Please note: Licensing Services cannot process address or name changes for a firearm licence holders MDL or MVL – this must be undertaken through Department of Transport.

Where firearm licence holders possess a Motor Drivers Licence (MDL) or Motor Vehicle Licence (MVL), a Change of Personal Details (P64) form must be completed and submitted to the Department of Transport (DOT).

It is a legal requirement (Section 11A Firearms Regulations 1974) that a firearm licence holder is to store their firearm(s) and ammunition in a locked container that meets the specifications detailed in Schedule 4 of the Firearm Regulations 1974. The cabinets (or gun safes) are readily available for purchase at firearm dealers. There are specific requirements to have these cabinets secured to walls or other approved immovable surfaces.

Please note: A cabinet or container that can be unlocked with a key is to be regarded as unlocked if the key is left in the lock or is otherwise accessible where the cabinet or container is located. It is the responsibility of the firearm owner to ensure there is not easy access to the cabinet key.

Ammunition cannot be stored in a cabinet where a firearm is stored unless the ammunition is in a separate locked metal container in which no firearm is stored and it is securely affixed so as to prevent its removal from the cabinet.

It is a requirement that an applicant for the issue of a firearm licence or permit provide supporting advice detailing the storage to be provided for that firearm. A Form 22 Storage Statement and photographic evidence is required.

If a licence holder moves address they must advise WA Police Force Licensing Services within 21 days of your new address and provide supporting advice/evidence of the firearm security and storage at the new location.

Click the link or refer to Form 22 Storage Statement (PDF, 420KB) and Form 22 Storage Statement Example (PDF, 1.1MB).

For more information, see Storage Requirements.

Propellant and Black Powder Storage

Storage of Black powder falls under the Department of Mines and Petroleum.

All inquiries should be referred to the Department of Mines and Petroleum. 

Firearm Licence Holder

The provisions of Section 11A (1) Firearms Regulations 1974 apply in respect of storage security requirements.

"A person entitled to possess firearms or ammunition of any kind is to ensure that the firearms or ammunition are stored in accordance with this regulation. Firearms and ammunition are to be stored in a locked cabinet or container that at least meets the specifications described in Schedule 4 or in such other way as is approved".

The part of the regulation above that refers to "in such other way as is approved" relates to specific situations where circumstances dictate that another form of security is required. The decision in relation to what is otherwise approved is for the delegated officer at the WA Police Force Licensing Services to determine.

Guidance can be obtained from Firearm Storage Requirements brochure on website or Schedule 4 Firearms Regulations 1974 – Specifications for storage cabinets or containers.

Statutory Declaration

A firearm licence applicant is required to submit a statement detailing their proposed storage facilities to the Western Australia Police Force. The Form 22 Storage Statement, will form as part of the firearm licence application process, to expedite the application process the applicant will be provided an opportunity to submit Form 22 Storage Statement prior to finalisation of the licence assessment. (See 11A and 11C Firearms Regulations 1974). Failure to comply would result in refusal and/or revocation of firearm licences.

The Form 22 Storage Statement is to include supporting evidence that adequate and safe storage had been installed i.e. receipt from installer and/or photograph of the cabinet in situ with anchoring and/or fixing points.

Storage security requirements (Sch. 4)

• Firearms and ammunition are to be stored in a locked cabinet or container that at least meets the specifications described in Schedule 4 or in such other way as is approved.
• A cabinet or container that can be unlocked with a key is to be regarded as unlocked if the key is left in the lock or is otherwise accessible where the cabinet or container is located.
• A magazine is not to contain any ammunition when it is stored.
• Ammunition is not to be stored in a cabinet or container in which a firearm is stored unless the ammunition is in another locked metal container in which no firearm is stored and which is securely affixed so as to prevent its removal from the cabinet or container.
• The requirements of this regulation are in addition to, not instead of, any requirements under the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004.

Construction

Specifications for storage cabinets or containers.

• The cabinet or container is to be constructed of mild steel that is 2 mm thick.
• A joint between 2 faces that is butt welded is to have a continuous weld along the full length of the joint.
• A joint where the edge of one face is folded over the edge of another face is to be stitch welded, with welds of at least 20 mm in length at intervals of not more than 100 mm between welds.
• Spot welding is not to be used on the joints between faces.
• The cabinet or container is to be so designed that no firearm or ammunition within it can be removed from it while it is locked.
• In this clause: 'face' means a side, the top, or the bottom, of the cabinet or container.

Doors

• Doors are to be recessed into the surrounding frame with margins of not more than 4 mm.
• Each edge of the door and door frame is to be internally supported and have a return of at least 10 mm.
• The cabinet or container is to have an internal stop of at least 10 mm against which each edge of the door, other than the hinged edge, closes.
• The supports and stops required by sub clauses (2) and (3) are to be welded at the corners.

Hinging mechanisms

• Hinge protection is to be provided in such a way that, if the hinges are removed, the door of the cabinet or container remains in place and locked.
• If the hinged edge of the door is not longer than 1 metre, 2 hinges are required on it, and if it is longer than 1 metre, an additional hinge is required for each additional 500 mm or part thereof.
• If 2 hinges are required, the distance between them is to be not less than one-third of the length of the hinged edge.
• If more than 2 hinges are required the distance between adjacent hinges is to be the same and that is also to be the distance from each of the outermost hinges to the nearest end of the hinged edge.
• If a spindle is used instead of hinges, it is to extend the full length of the hinged edge of the door and is to be attached to the door by welds the number and placement of which comply with the requirements of sub clauses (2), (3), and (4) for the number and placement of hinges.
• If, instead of using hinges, the door swings on a spindle or on pivots not extending the full length of the hinged edge of the door, the cabinet or container is to incorporate a return protecting the hinged edge, along its full length, against the use of a jemmy.

Locks and locking points

• If the swinging edge of the door is not longer than 500 mm, one lock is required with a locking point half way along that edge.
• If the swinging edge is longer than 500 mm but not longer than 1.5 metres:
  a) 2 locks are required each with a separate locking point along the swinging edge; and
  b) the distance between the 2 locking points is to be not less than one-third of the length of the swinging edge.
• If the swinging edge is longer than 1.5 metres:
  a) for each additional 500 mm or part thereof there is to be an additional lock with a separate locking point along the swinging edge; and
  b) the distance between adjacent locking points is to be the same and that is also to be the distance from each of the outermost locking points to the nearest end of the swinging edge.
• It is sufficient compliance with sub clause (2) if, when the swinging edge is longer than 500 mm but not longer than 1.5 metres, there is one lock with at least 3 separate locking points.
• Each lock is to have a 5 pin mechanism that deadlocks the bolt in the locked position until it is properly unlocked.
• If the locking bolt is designed to be released by a handle or lever, the design is to be such that, if the handle or lever is forcibly removed while the door is locked, the bolt remains in the locked position.
• The cabinet or container is to be fitted with a protective structure to guard against the forcible removal of any lock.
• In this clause: "locking point" means the point at which the bolt locks the door to the cabinet or container, preventing the door from opening; "swinging edge" means the edge of the door opposite the hinged edge.

Anchoring

• The cabinet or container is to be securely anchored from the inside at 2 points on each of 2 separate surfaces to 2 immovable structural surfaces by means of 8 mm x 75 mm masonry fixing bolts or coach screws, as is appropriate.
• At each anchor point the cabinet or container is to be reinforced with a 40 mm x 40 mm x 2 mm metal plate, or a 40 mm x 2 mm metal washer, fitted between the surface of the cabinet or container and the head of the bolt or coach screw.

[Schedule 4 inserted in Gazette 6 Dec 1996 p. 6847-9.]

Statutory declaration

Under the Firearms Regulations 1974 11A (1),

"a person entitled to possess firearms or ammunition of any kind is to ensure that the firearms or ammunition are stored in accordance with this regulation".

In compliance with this regulation, a Firearms Licence applicant is required to submit a statement detailing their proposed storage facilities to the WA Police Force.

The Form 22 Storage Statement, will form as part of the Firearms Licence application process and the declaration is to be provided on request prior to finalisation of the licence assessment. (See 11A and 11C of the Firearms Regulations 1974).

Failure to comply would result in refusal and/or revocation of Firearms Licences.

Please note: The Form 22 Storage Statement is to include supporting evidence that adequate and safe storage had been installed i.e. receipt from installer and/or photograph of the cabinet in situ with anchoring and/or fixing points.

Tips to remember when considering storage facilities:

• Be mindful of the location for firearm/ammunition cabinets!
• Do not place them at obvious locations where it is easily identified. An open style garage or carport IS NOT a recommended location!
• Be mindful of anchoring and fixing bolts and washers when installing firearm storages or containers.
• Consider installing a security alarm to cover the cabinet/storage/container location.

More information on specifications for storage cabinets or containers is in Schedule 4 Firearms Regulations 1974 can be found in the Related Information section below.

Please note: Licences (Dealers, Repairers & Manufacturers) relating to handguns are subject to additional Storage requirements (See Firearms Dealers, Repairers & Manufacturers Handgun Security Policy for additional information).

Under Section 19 (1) Firearms Act 1973 it is an offence to be in possession of unlicensed firearms:

• It is an offence to be in possession of a firearm if the licence has expired. It is the responsibility of the firearm licence holder to ensure their firearm licence remains current.
• Where a firearm licence holder’s licence has expired by 3 months or more, an infringement notice will be personally issued by Police to the licence holder.
• The licence holder firearm(s) will be seized at the time the infringement is served if the renewal has not been paid.
• A renewal notice will be provided at the time the infringement is served and the licence holder must renew the licence and pay the infringement prior to any firearms being returned by police.
• If the infringement notice is not paid within 28 days the licence holder may be charged with an offence under Section 19 (1) Firearms Act 1973.
• Should the licence holder not wish to renew their licence, they may legally dispose of, or have their firearm(s) destroyed by completing a P94 form – Authority to Dispose by police.

To pay a licence renewal or infringement visit our Licence Renewals & Infringements page.

All firearms must be removed from a licence before it can be closed.

• A firearm may be transferred to an existing Co-user. Please provide the following information for us to process via email.
  • Firearm details including serial, make, etc
  • Co-user details including licence number and name.
• Firearms may be sold to a licensed dealer in WA. The dealer will provide Licensing Services with a ‘return’ and the firearm is removed off your licence.
• You may privately sell a firearm. The applicant makes an application for the firearm and once approved, the firearm will be removed from your licence.
• Please note: you must retain possession of the firearm until the applicant is licensed to it. The applicant will also require a Private Purchase Permission form to be completed by the owner to support their application which can be found in the Resources section on the Firearm Licence page.
• You may surrender the firearm for destruction to a police station and complete a P94 form – Authority to Dispose. Once the firearm has been destroyed by WA Police, the firearm will be removed from your licence.

Please complete a Cancel Firearm Licence form (PDF 356KB) as authority to close the licence.

Where a deceased firearm licence holder is the sole or primary holder of licensed firearm(s), the firearms will need to be handed into police pending outcome of the Estate. It is important that the Executor or Administrator of the Estate contact/liaise with police to ensure the safe storage of firearms at a local police station as firearms cannot remain in the possession of an unlicensed person.

The Executor or Administrator of the Estate (Executor) should advise WA Police Force Licensing Services in writing. Post to Licensing Services Locked Bag 9 East Perth 6892 or via email Licensing Services:

• The full name and contact details for the Executor or Administrator of the Estate.
• The full name and date of birth of the deceased licence holder.
• The deceased’s Firearm Licence Number and Firearm(s) (if known) and
• The name of any licensed co-user (if known) and details of any firearm(s) in possession of that person(s) (if known).

The Executor must advise what is to happen with the firearm(s), be it disposal to a firearm dealer or other licensed person, forfeiture of the firearm for destruction, or held pending outcome of the estate.

Please note: The Executor of an estate must not retain possession of the firearm(s).

You can check the licence expiry date or application status by clicking on the Check Licence Expiry Date or Application Status button above.

Please enter your details as recorded on your application or licence.

Please note: Your firearms licence has eight (8) digits. If you have an existing firearms licence with seven (7) digits, when entering your details in the Public Portal, please include a zero (0) at the start of the licence number.

Your application number is found on your hard copy receipt from Australia Post.

Firearm Licence Applications are submitted online via the link above.

Once completed, the applicant must print the Application Summary and lodge this with their supporting documents at a participating WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF).

An application fee is payable for each type of licence, please see Licence Fees section below for the type of licence being applied for.

It is a requirement when applying for a firearms licence or an additional firearm that you provide proof of your identification to Australia Post when you lodge your application. Applicants will need to satisfy a 100 point proof of identification requirement. The combination of documents supplied should, as a minimum, show evidence of your full name and date of birth. All documents must be original. Proof of identity documents must be from the list below. 

What constitutes 100 points of ID

Primary Documents - 70 points each
ONE primary document OR At least ONE secondary document that includes a photograph.

• Australian Birth Certificate or Birth Card - Issued by the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages (extracts are not acceptable).
• Australian Passport - Current or expired within the last two years, but not cancelled.
• Australian Citizenship Certificate.
• International Passport - Current, not expired or cancelled.

Secondary Documents Points - 40 or 25 points each
Your initial document from this group will be awarded 40 points, any additional documents are awarded 25.

• Licence or Permit issued under Australia law - Includes Australian Drivers Licence, Australian Firearms licences or similar.
• State or Federal Government Employee Identity.
• Tertiary Education Institution Identity.
• Australian Learner’s Permit.
• Department of Veterans Affairs Card.
• Centrelink or Social Security Card.

Secondary Documents 25 Points each
All documents in this group attract 25 points. Only one card from each institution may be counted.

• Proof of Age Card - Issued by Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
• Medicare Card.
• Council Rates Notice.
• Property Lease/Rental Agreement.
• Property Insurance Papers.
• Motor Vehicle Registration or Insurance Documents.
• Professional or Trade Association Card.
• Utility Bills (e.g. Telephone, Gas, Electricity, Water).
• Credit/Account Card.
• Bank Statement/Passbook.

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF). The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

To obtain a firearms licence for recreational, hunting or shooting (Genuine Reason) the Applicant will require written permission for that hunting or shooting on land the owner has given written permission.

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking to license firearms on a Recreational Hunting/Shooting basis:

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of your application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of your application) this is usually provided by the licensed firearm dealer or an authorised member of an approved club.
• A Property Letter (PDF, 310KB) signed by the property owner or authorised person on behalf of the property owner (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application). A recreational shooter under Section 11A(2)(c) Firearms Act 1973 requires written permission from a property owner to satisfy the genuine reason for an applicant to use a firearm for hunting or recreational shooting. Click the link or see Resources section below for a Property Letter form.

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A Property Letter (PDF, 310KB) signed by the property owner or authorised person on behalf of the property owner (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application). Click the link or see Resources section below for a Property Letter form.

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF). The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

All applications should include a detailed explanation of the club approved disciplines the applicant wishes to partake in.

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking to license firearms for Club Use:

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (In support to the Application process it is expected the Firearm Serviceability Certificate be issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application), this can be provided by an authorised member of an approved club or the firearm dealer.
• A Club Support Letter signed by the President or Secretary (or other authorised person) of a firearms club where the applicant is an “active and financial member”.

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application).
• A Club Support Letter signed by the President or Secretary of a firearms club where the applicant is an “active and financial member”.

Please note: if the applicant is applying for a club supported handgun for competition use, they should be aware of the following restrictions as laid out in Schedule 3, 12(2) Firearms Regulations 1974:

(2)  An approval or permit may be granted, and a licence may be issued, to a person under sub clause (1)(a) only if:

(a) The person has been a member of an approved shooting club for at least 6 months;
(b) If the person has been a member of an approved shooting club for less than 12 months, the approval, permit or licence does not apply to more than 2 handguns being either:

(i) One .177 air pistol and one .22 calibre handgun; or
(ii) One .177 air pistol and one centre fire handgun

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF). The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

Firearms licensed for Occupational Use are broken down into three Categories:

• Professional Shooter
• Primary Producer, or
• Nominee of a Primary Producer.

If a person is seeking to license a firearm for Occupational Use as a Primary Producer or as the Nominee of a Primary Producer, be aware that the firearm will be restricted to the nominated property only.

Please note: if it is a person’s intention to use the firearm(s) on other properties where they have the appropriate permission of the landowners, they should apply for a licence using the Recreational Hunting/Shooting classification.

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking to license firearms for Occupational Use – Primary Producer:

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months from the date of the application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Primary Producer form (PDF, 333KB). 
• Rates Notices.
• Documents in support of your Primary Production.

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Primary Producer form (PDF, 333KB).
  Click the link or see Resources section below for an Occupational Disclosure Primary Producer form.
• Rates Notices.
• Documents in support of your Primary Production.

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF). The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

Firearms licensed for Occupational Use are broken down into three Categories:

• Professional Shooter,
• Primary Producer, or
• Nominee of a Primary Producer.

If a person is seeking to license a firearm for Occupational Use as a Primary Producer or as the Nominee of a Primary Producer, be aware that the firearm will be restricted to the nominated property only.

Please note: if it is a person’s intention to use the firearm(s) on other properties where they have the appropriate permission of the landowners, they should apply for a licence using the Recreational Hunting/Shooting classification.

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking to license firearms for Occupational Use – Nominee of a Primary Producer:

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Nominee of a Primary Producer form (PDF, 336KB).
• Rates Notices.
• Documents in support of Primary Production.

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Nominee of a Primary Producer form (PDF, 336KB).
  Click the link or see Resources section below for an Occupational Disclosure Nominee of a Primary Producer form.
• Rates Notices.
• Documents in support of Primary Production.

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF). The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

Firearms licensed for Occupational Use are broken down into three Categories:

• Professional Shooter,
• Primary Producer, or
• Nominee of a Primary Producer.

If a person is seeking to license a firearm for Occupational Use as a Primary Producer or as the Nominee of a Primary Producer, be aware that the firearm will be restricted to the nominated property only.

Please note: if it is a person’s intention to use the firearm(s) on other properties where they have the appropriate permission of the landowners, they should apply for a licence using the Recreational Hunting/Shooting classification.

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application).
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Professional Shooter form (PDF, 295KB).
• A copy of the applicants Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions permit and approved properties.
• Documents in support of the applicant’s occupation as a Professional Shooter.

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Professional Shooter form (PDF, 295KB). 
  Click the link or see Resources section below for an Occupational Disclosure Professional Shooter form.
• A copy of the applicants Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions permit and approved properties.
• Documents in support of the applicant’s occupation as a Professional Shooter.

All supporting documents must be submitted along with the Application Summary when lodging the application at a WA Australia Post outlet. The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of licence/category being applied for.

Please retain copies of all documents prior to submission of the application with Australia Post.

Firearms licensed for Occupational Use are broken down into three Categories:

• Professional Shooter,
• Primary Producer, or
• Nominee of a Primary Producer.

If a person is seeking to license a firearm for Occupational Use as a Primary Producer or as the Nominee of a Primary Producer, be aware that the firearm will be restricted to the nominated property only.

Please note: if it is a person’s intention to use the firearm(s) on other properties where they have the appropriate permission of the landowners, they should apply for a licence using the Recreational Hunting/Shooting classification.

People seeking to license Category C firearms for use on properties can only do so under Occupational Use conditions. The following information must be provided in order to effectively assess an applicant’s genuine need and purpose:

Original Application

• A Firearms Awareness Certificate (issued no more than 12 months prior to the date of the application).
• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Primary Producer (PDF, 333KB) or Occupational Disclosure Nominee of a Primary Producer form (PDF, 336KB).
• Rates notices.
• An explanation as to why Category A and B firearms are not suitable for the task.
• A detailed explanation as to why other control methods (such as baiting and trapping) have not been successful.
• Outline the applicant’s annual monetary loss as a result of the encountered vermin.
• Documents in support of Primary Production.
• Are any other Category C firearms licensed to the property?

Additional Application

• A Firearm Serviceability Certificate (issued no more than three months prior to the date of the application) this is usually provided by the firearm dealer.
• A completed Occupational Disclosure Primary Producer (PDF, 333KB) or Occupational Disclosure Nominee of a Primary Producer form (PDF, 336KB).
• Rates notices.
• An explanation as to why Category A and B firearms are not suitable for the task.
• A detailed explanation as to why other control methods (such as baiting and trapping) have not been successful.
• Outline the applicant’s annual monetary loss as a result of the encountered vermin.
• Documents in support of Primary Production.
• Are any other Category C firearms licensed to the property?

Original Application

If you do not currently hold a Western Australia Firearms Licence and wish to own a firearm you will be required to complete an Original Application. This is subject to a 28 day cooling off period, during which time the application cannot be finalised by Licensing Services. You will also be required to meet certain requirements in accordance with legislation. 

Additional Application

If you have a current Western Australia firearms licence and you wish to add another firearm you will be required to complete an Additional Application. This will not be subject to a 28 day cooling off period, however there are still requirements that will need to be met in accordance with legislation.  

Co-User Application

Legislation requires that to have access to any firearms you must be licensed for them; therefore if you wish to use someone else's firearm/s you will need to make an application as per the above (Original or Additional) and select where requested, that you are applying to co-use the firearms with the current primary licence holder. As part of the application process, you will also need to provide a signed Permission to Co-Use Firearm form (PDF, 349KB). This co-user agreement does not mean that you own the firearm in question, it provides lawful authority to possess, carry and use. The applicant will be issued with a licence to co-use that firearm and it will require renewal on a yearly basis. 

A Firearm Awareness Test is required to be successfully completed by every first time applicant for the issue of an original Firearm Licence.

• The test is designed to ensure the applicant understands the basic requirements for the safe handling of firearms and firearm laws in WA.
• The Firearms Awareness Test and supporting information is available through Firearm Dealers or other authorised persons on behalf of approved firearm clubs or associations. Persons who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF).
• At the successful completion of the test, a Firearm Awareness Certificate will be issued.

A Firearm Serviceability Certificate is required for each firearm subject of an application to ensure compliance with Sections 12 and 18(5) Firearms Act 1973 and Regulation 24 Firearms Regulations 1974. 

Certificates can only be issued by participating Clubs/Associations or licensed Firearm Dealers, Repairers or Manufacturers. 

It is the responsibility of the person licensing the firearm to obtain the Serviceability Certificate, which remains valid for a period of 3 months from date of issue.

When a person submits an application to licence any firearm whether it be an original or additional application they must meet the legal requirement of a Genuine Reason for each and every firearm and in some cases also a Genuine Need. 

Genuine Reason

Section 11A Firearms Act 1973 is quite specific on what can be accepted as a Genuine Reason. It states: 
A person has a genuine reason for acquiring or possessing a firearm or ammunition if and only if:

Genuine Need

The Genuine Need is based on a process of why a particular firearm is required over and above one of another type include: 

• Category A 
  There is no Genuine Need requirement for Category A firearms.
   
• Category B
  An applicant must satisfy that a Category A firearm would be inadequate or unsuitable for the purpose for which the firearm is required. This includes firearms they may already own. 
   
• Category C
  An applicant must satisfy that a Category A or B firearm would be inadequate or unsuitable for the purpose for which the firearm is required. This includes firearms they may already own. 
   
• Category D
  An applicant must satisfy that the firearm is required for Commonwealth or State government purposes.
   
• Category H
  An applicant must satisfy that a firearm of Category A, B or C would be inadequate or unsuitable for the purpose for which the firearm is required.
  A person does not have a genuine need to possess a Category H firearm for
  1. Hunting.
  2. Recreational shooting unless it is required for approved club use.
  3. Destroying stock or vermin unless authorised for use by the holders of a pastoral lease where cattle are grazed for commercial purposes.

For more information on Genuine Need refer to Schedule 3 Firearms Regulations 1974 which can be found in the Related Information section below.

Category A

Category   Description

A1              an air rifle
A2.1           a single shot rim fire rifle
A2.2           a repeating rim fire rifle
A3.1           a single shot shotgun
A3.2           a double barrel shotgun
A3.3           a repeating shotgun (bolt action)
A4.1           a combination firearm made up of a shotgun and a rifle each of which would individually be of category A
A4.2           a rifle combination made up of rifles each of which would individually be of category A

Category B

Category   Description

B1              a muzzle loading firearm (except a handgun)
B2.1           a single shot centre fire rifle
B2.2           a double barrel centre fire rifle
B2.3           a repeating centre fire rifle
B2.4           a repeating shotgun (lever action) with a magazine capacity of no more than 5 rounds
B3.1           a combination firearm, not of category C or D, made up of a shotgun and a rifle at least one of which would individually be of category B
B3.2           a rifle combination, not of category C or D, made up of rifles at least one of which would individually be of category B

Category C

Category   Description

C1              a self loading rim fire rifle with a magazine capacity no more than 10 rounds
C2              a self loading shotgun with a magazine capacity no more than 5 rounds
C3              a pump action shotgun with a magazine capacity no more than 5 rounds
C4.1           a combination firearm, not of category D, made up of a shotgun and a rifle at least one of which would individually be of category C
C4.2           a rifle combination, not of category D, made up of rifles at least one of which would individually be of category C

Category E

Category   Description

E1              a cannon
E3              a line thrower
E4              a tranquilliser

Category H

Category   Description

H1              a handgun (including an air pistol)
H2              an underwater explosive device

Pneumatic Firearms

Pneumatic firearms are commonly referred to as air guns. Some firearms have rifled barrels and some do not. They come in various calibres, however they are mainly .177 or .22 with both pneumatic pistols and rifles available in these calibres.

Break Open Firearms

Break open firearms are usually single or double barrel shotguns in various gauges but can include some rifles and handguns. In most cases there is a lever on the rear of the action, generally moving this lever to the right allows the action to be opened.

Usually firearms of this type will have the safety catch located at the rear of the lever that opens the action making it readily accessible to the shooter's thumb. Some models have no external safety catch.

Bolt Action Firearms

Bolt action firearms are usually a repeating rifle or single shot in almost every conceivable calibre and can include some shotguns. They may have a fixed or removable box magazine, hinged floor or tubular magazine under the barrel or in the butt of the firearm. These firearms can be easily identified by a turned bolt, with the bolt handle usually on the right-hand side of the action. The bolt is raised and drawn to the rear to open the action. Safety catches are normally found at the rear of the action behind the bolt handle or near the trigger guard.

Lever Action Firearms

Lever action firearms are usually manually operated repeating rifles and can be identified by the cocking lever under the action of the firearm. They usually have a tubular magazine under the barrel or movable box magazine. They are available in a variety of calibres.

Downwards movement on the lever opens the action. Most of the western style rifles will not be fitted with a safety catch however the newer models have generally been fitted with a push button safety just in front of the hammer.

Pump Action Firearms

Pump action firearms are common in shotguns of various gauges but can also include rifles in both rim fire and centre fire calibres.

They can be identified by a sliding fore end that is drawn to the rear to open the action. They can be fitted with a tubular magazine under the barrel or a box magazine. Most have a safety catch located near the trigger guard.

Self-loading Firearms

Self-loading firearms are available in a large variety of rifle calibres and in shotgun gauges. They are usually identifiable by a small cocking handle which usually protrudes to the right-hand side of the breech bolt. They may be fitted with box or tubular magazines and can vary greatly in ammunition capacity.

Self-loading firearms are also referred to as semi-automatic firearms as each press of the trigger cycles the action automatically. These firearms will operate in one of the following manners: blowback, gas operated or recoil operated.

Fully Automatic Firearms (Prohibited)

Most fully automatic weapons have a large capacity box or drum magazine. Most have a select fire switch to allow either semi-automatic or full automatic fire.

Single Shot Rifles

Single shot rifles do not have a magazine. Bolt or lever action single shot rifles are manually loaded through the ejection port and into the chamber.

The Application Summary once lodged will be electronically matched to your application and sent to WA Police Force Licensing Services.

How long will it take?

Whilst we endeavour to complete all licence applications in a timely manner, several factors can affect the processing timeline, including but not limited to:

• Applicant probity.
• Additional information from property owner and firearm dealer.
• The complexity of the application.
   
• The number of applications currently being reviewed and processed.

Original applications that display a valid Genuine Reason/Need may be given “pre-approval”. At this point, an ‘Intention to Proceed’ letter and Form 22 storage package will be sent out to the applicant.

To obtain final approval for the licence, the applicant must return the completed Intention to Proceed letter along with a completed Form 22 Storage Statement showing compliant firearms storage. Please see Storage Requirements in Resources section below for further information about firearms storage.

You can check the status of your application by clicking on the Check Application Status button above.

You can check the licence expiry date or application status by clicking on the Check Licence Expiry Date or Application Status button above.

Please enter your details as recorded on your application or licence.

Please note: Your firearms licence has eight (8) digits. If you have an existing firearms licence with seven (7) digits, when entering your details in the Public Portal, please include a zero (0) at the start of the licence number.

Your application number is found on your hard copy receipt from Australia Post.

• Addendum of additional firearms (PDF, 397KB)
• Cancel firearm licence (PDF, 346KB)
• Change of personal details (PDF, 384KB)
• Form 22 storage statement (PDF, 420KB)
• Form 22 storage statement example (PDF, 1.1MB)
• Form 22 storage statement requirements (PDF, 979KB)
• National Firearms Safety Code (PDF, 508KB)
• Permission to privately purchase (PDF, 352KB)
• Statutory declaration (PDF, 62KB)

• Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004
• Dangerous Goods Safety (Explosives) Regulations 2007
• Dangerous Goods Safety (Storage and Handling Non-Explosives) Regulations 2007
• Firearms Act 1973
• Firearms Regulations 1974
• Weapons Act 1999
• Weapons Regulations 1999
• Police station search