Apply for a Collectors Licence

All supporting documents must be submitted along with an application Summary when lodging the application at a participating WA Australia Post outlet. 

People who live in remote WA can contact the local Multi-Function Police Facility (MFPF).

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

The required supporting documents are dependent on the type of classification you are claiming. The different requirements are outlined below.

Significant commemorative value

Must take into consideration any special significance that the firearm, or any firearm or firearms of the same kind as that firearm, or a related kind, has to a particular event in history.

Example:
Winchester Mod 73 Little Bighorn 100 year Anniversary. 
Uberti Mod 73 Little Bighorn Tribute Rifle (replica of the Winchester).

There must be a direct link between the firearm (make, model, type, calibre) and the event. In the example, the firearm used at the Little Bighorn battle was the Winchester 1873 lever action 44/40 rifle. 

Therefore, any Winchester Mod 73 Commemorative lever rifle, or any other Commemorative Winchester model lever rifle whether in the same or different calibre could be approved. Similarly, any replica Winchester Commemorative lever rifle by another manufacturer (Uberti) could also meet the same requirement.  

This does not apply if the kind of firearm was not in existence or was not used in the event. For example, the Kimber 1911 Texas Commemorative Handgun commemorating the 1835 Battle of Gonzales has no significant link to the actual event as the Colt 1911 Handgun (on which the Kimber is modelled) was not in existence at the time.

Remember, significant commemorative value links the particular firearm to the event, not simply what is pictured or represented on the firearm.

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking a Collector’s Licence on a Commemorative basis:

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.
• Information in the applicants own words demonstrating the firearm has significant commemorative value.
• Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

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.

Information in the applicants own words demonstrating the firearm has significant commemorative value.

Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

Significant historical value 

Must take into consideration any special significance the firearm, or any firearm or firearms of the same kind as that firearm, or a related kind, has to a particular period in history.

Must be able to address the following points:

• What is the particular period in history and its significance (e.g.: Used by German Army during World War 2. This may require further explanation if the information provided is ‘overly general’ in nature).
• What links the firearm to that particular period in history and the significance of that link?
• What was the historical purpose of the firearm – what was it used for and who by?
• When was it manufactured?

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking a Collector’s Licence on a significant historical basis:

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.
• Information demonstrating that the firearm has significant historical value.
• Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

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.
• Information in the applicants own words demonstrating the firearm has significant historical value.
• Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

Significant thematic value

Must take into consideration any special significance the firearm, or any firearm or firearms of the same kind as that firearm, or a related kind, has to the development, manufacture, or use of firearms.

The theme must be specific, e.g. Handguns used by British airmen during World War 2 – rather than a generic ‘Handguns used by British military’ which is too broad.

Must address the following points:

• Must be able to identify a valid theme relating to the development, manufacture or use of firearms.
• How does this firearm fit into the theme and the significance of this firearm to the theme?
• If the applicant already has other firearms within the same theme, how does this firearm(s) add to, enhance or expand the understanding or development of the theme?

The following supporting documentation is required for those seeking a Collector’s Licence on a Thematic basis:

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.
• Information in the applicants own words demonstrating the firearm has significant thematic value.
• Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

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.
• Information in the applicants own words demonstrating the firearm has significant thematic value.
• Evidence that the applicant is a “Student of Arms” (In the event the firearm the applicant is seeking to license is a handgun manufactured after 1946).

What happens after your application?

The application summary once lodged at a WA Australia Post outlet will be electronically matched to the application and sent to WA Police Force Licensing Services.  

Once the online form is complete, the applicant must print the application summary and lodge this with their supporting documents at a participating WA Australia Post outlet. People 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 and renewal fees 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.

To minimise errors and possible delays in the application process, it is preferable the certificate be typed and not hand written.

• 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 Western Australia.
• 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 Awareness Certificate is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
• In the event the applicant does not successfully pass the test on their first attempt they are excluded from 're-sitting' the test for a period of 24 hours.
• An applicant is not to be afforded more than three opportunities to complete the assessment and where an applicant has been unsuccessful on three occasions Licensing Services are to be notified.
• A copy of the Firearm Awareness Certificate (with the actual test/result – including unsuccessful assessments) should be retained on file at the point of issue.
• The authorised person issuing the certificate shall ensure all fields are completed in accordance with the explanatory note (as provided).
• Once completed, the certificate is to be provided to the purchaser/applicant in order that it can be presented with their application summary at a participating Australia Post outlet.

Section 8(2) Firearms Act 1973 defines an antique mechanism firearm as a muzzle loading firearm (including a percussion lock handgun that is muzzle loading) manufactured before 1900 that uses black powder to propel a shot, bullet or missile. 

It does not include a breech loading cartridge firearm, a firearm with a revolving chamber or barrel, or a cannon.

A person who is in possession of, or carries, but does not use an antique mechanism firearm is exempt from licensing under the provisions of Section 8(1)(mc) Firearms Act 1973. If a person does not intend to use the firearm they are not required to hold a licence.

Please note: that an antique mechanism firearm is still bound by the provisions of Section 11A Firearms Regulations 1974 and must be stored in a storage cabinet or container that meets the specifications described in Schedule 4 of the Regulations, or in such other way as is approved. 

Note: an antique mechanism firearm cannot be displayed on the wall unless inside an approved strong room.

Membership of a society

Membership of a society on its own is insufficient to demonstrate student of arms. Quality of the membership is what is essential. Demonstrating the applicant is a ‘Student of Arms’ may be assisted by the following activities:

• Length of membership (prolonged).
• Attendance at and contribution to monthly meetings, discussion groups, swap meets and other activities (genuine interest) arranged by the society.
• Contribution to the body of written and oral knowledge on firearms in general and firearms of the person’s particular interest.
• Research activities.
• Recognition by peers within the society as to particular expertise.
• Being recognised by the society as being a student of arms.

The applicant must also detail their genuine interest in the study, preservation or collection, of firearms. Things to be taken into consideration. Is this an Additional Collector’s Licence? If so:

• How long has the applicant held a Collector’s Licence?
• How many firearms are currently licensed by the applicant under the category of a Collector’s Licence?
• Are the already licensed firearms of a similar type as those currently applied for?
• Has the applicant previously been deemed a “Student of Arms”?
• Importance of this particular firearm being collected to the study, preservation or collection of firearms.

Non-membership of a society

The applicant will need to demonstrate the following:

• Contribution to the body of written and oral knowledge on firearms in general and firearms of the person’s particular interest.
• Research activities.
• Recognition by peers within the industry as to particular expertise.
• Being recognised within the industry as being a “Student of arms”.
• Anything else that demonstrates the applicant has expertise in the study, preservation or collection of the particular firearms applied for.
• Is this an Additional Collector’s Licence? If so:
  • How long has the applicant held a Collector’s Licence?
  • Are they already licensed for firearms of a similar type as those currently applied for?
  • Has the applicant previously been deemed a “Student of Arms”?
  • Importance of this particular firearm being collected to the study, preservation or collection of firearms

The “Student of Arms” requirement applies to all handguns manufactured after 1946. To be described as a student of arms the person can be shown to have a prolonged and genuine interest in the study, preservation, or collection of firearms. [section 15(3) and (4)]

In considering whether a person is a student of arms, the Commissioner may take into consideration information provided by an accredited society of collectors (see s 15A and 15B). 

Currently, there are two accredited societies – the WA Arms and Armour Society and the WA Military Heritage Society. 

For a person to be a student of arms there is an expectation the person is a current member of one of these societies however, this is not an absolute requirement (further explanation below).

Ammunition Licence

An Ammunition Collector’s Licence allows the holder to possess and carry ammunition; however the ammunition cannot be used. In some cases the quantities of ammunition may be specified.

The applicant needs to have a genuine reason/genuine need to collect ammunition.

If the applicant has not previously held a Western Australia Collector's Licence for Ammunition, then the first application is treated as an original, though the applicant may hold another type of firearm(s) licence.

Ammunition storage

A person entitled to possess ammunition of any kind is to ensure the ammunition is stored in accordance with the Firearms Regulations 1974.

Ammunition is 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".

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 licence holder 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 another locked metal container in which no firearm is stored and it is securely affixed so as to prevent its removal from the cabinet.

Holders of a Firearms Collectors Licence are subject to the same storage requirements as holders of a standard Firearms Licence apart from a requirement to have separate lockable ammunition storage, as laid out below:

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

"A person entitled to possess firearms or ammunition of any kind is to ensure 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".

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 licence holder 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 another 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. Click the links or refer to Form 22 storage statement (PDF, 220KB) and Form 22 storage statement example (PDF, 1.1MB).

Please note: Collectors Licences may be exempt from ammunition storage requirements as the licence holder cannot purchase or possess ammunition under the terms of this licence.  

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.

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

Please note: Licences relating to handguns are subject to additional storage requirements.

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 previous owner and/or firearm dealer.
• The complexity of the application.
• The number of applications currently being reviewed and processed.

Original applications that successfully satisfy a genuine need will be given “pre-approval”. 

At this point, an ‘Intention to Proceed’ letter and storage package will be sent out. 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. 

Further information about firearms storage can be found under collectors storage requirements. 

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:

• A change in holder’s name.
• A change in the holder’s place of residence; and
• A change in the storage arrangements for a firearm to which the licence or permit relates.

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, 220KB) 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).

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 the day after a licence has expired, it is the responsibility of the firearm licence holder to ensure their firearm licence is current.
• Where a firearm licence holder’s licence has expired by 3 months or more, an infringement notice will be personally issued by Police.
• The licence holder’s firearm(s) will be seized at the time the infringement is served if they have not paid the renewal.
• A renewal notice will be included at the time the infringement is served and the licence holder must renew this prior to getting their firearms back from 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 and 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 Force, the firearm will be removed from your licence.

Please complete a cancel firearm licence form (PDF, 346KB) as authority to close the licence. Click on the link or see Resources section below.

Where a deceased firearm licence holder is the sole or primary holder of licensed firearm(s) then those firearms will be seized by police. It is a requirement that the executor or administrator of the estate must hand the firearm(s) into a local police station or contact police for collection 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 WA 6892 or via email licensingservicesfirearms@police.wa.gov.au:

• 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).

Firearms cannot be left in the possession of a licensed co-user(s) as the firearm becomes part of the primary licence holder’s estate and ceases to be licensed once that person dies. A co-user is licensed to only have possession/carry/use the firearm whilst the primary licence holder is alive.

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.

Collector's licence fees

Ammunition collector licence fees

• 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