Apply for a Firearms Licence Now With These Simple Tips in 2023

firearms licence AU

Need to renew your firearms licence or want to start a new application? Get started today and use this article to find out everything you need to know! You’ll most likely need a passport-style photo during your application, so use a cheap, professional service that knows the requirements, like Smartphone iD. Keep reading to find out how to apply for a firearms licence now with these simple tips. Let’s get started!

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Firearms Licence?

There are certain steps you must take to be able to apply for a firearms licence in Australia, as well as matching the right criteria. Read below to find out if you’re eligible to apply for a firearms licence.

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Firearms Licence

  • You must be over the age of 18
  • You must have a reason for possessing the firearms licence
  • You must be able to prove your reasons, such as documents, memberships etc.
  • You must have no record of prescribed offences
    • Violent offences
    • Sexual offences
    • Drug offences
    • Robbery
    • Terrorism
    • Criminal activity or organised crime
    • Weapons offences
    • Fraud

What are the Reasons for Obtaining a Firearms Licence?

Firearms are strictly controlled in Australia to prevent crime related to firearms. You must have a reason to want to own a firearm and be able to prove that reason through your application. Read the reasons below which are acceptable for owning a firearm in Australia.

  • Sport shooting
  • Hunting
  • Production of animal materials
  • Pest Control
  • Business
  • Animal Welfare
  • Farming or rural occupations
  • Firearm collecting

How to Apply for a Firearms Licence?

To apply for a firearms licence in Australia, you will need to fill out the application form as well as supply any necessary documents to the Australian government for processing.

How to Apply for a Firearms Licence

  1. Get an application form for a firearms licence or apply online
  2. Fill in your reasons for possessing a firearm
  3. Fill in which category of firearm you require and why
  4. Include a Safety Training Completion Certificate with your application
  5. Declare that you will store the firearm correctly for its category
  6. Wait for background checks to be completed
  7. Receive an approved application in the post

What are the Required Documents for a Firearms Licence?

When you make your firearms application in Australia, you’ll need to provide supporting documents as well. Read below to find out what documents you might need to provide in addition to your application form.

Required Documents for a Firearms Licence

  • Proof of identity
    • Driver’s Licence
    • Birth Certificate
  • Safety Training Completion Certificate
  • A recent passport-sized photograph
  • Previous firearms licence number
  • Documents to support your reason for possessing a firearm
  • Evidence of ‘special need’ for any firearm above category A
  • Credit or debit card

What is the Cost of a Firearms Licence?

Depending on the type of licence you apply for, you’ll pay a different fee. So make sure to find out what cost you will need to pay beforehand.

Cost of Individual Firearms Licences

  • 2 Year Category A,B,C,D or H: $100 AUD
  • 5 Year Category A,B,C,D or H: $200 AUD
  • 5 Year Collectors Licence Application: $75 AUD
  • 5 Year Collectors Licence Renewal: $40 AUD
  • Probationary Pistol Licence: 100$ AUD

Cost of Business/Club/Government Firearms Licences

  • 2 Year Category A,B,C,D or H: $100 AUD
  • 5 Year Category A,B,C,D or H: $200 AUD
  • 5 Year Firearms Dealer Licence: $500 AUD
  • 5 Year Club Armourer Licence: $100 AUD

What is the Processing Time for a Firearms Licence?

It depends on the time of year and how many current application are being processed. However, you can expect a new firearms licence application to take 28 days or longer for approval. You will receive an email on submission of your application where you can view the details.

How Long Does a Firearms Licence Last?

Depending on the fee you pay for your firearms licence, the length of the validity will differ. There are 2 year and 5 year firearms licences available for purchase. Make sure you choose the correct length of time, as you will have to renew once it expires incurring more costs.

Where to Take a Correct Firearms Licence Photo, Cheap & Quick?

Thinking about applying for a firearms licence? You’ll need a passport-style photo for your application. If you think you do, don’t pay more than you need to!

Did you know that you can get pre-approved passport-style photos without any expensive professional equipment? All you need is your smartphone.

Use the Smartphone iD app to get full guidance when taking your photo with expert checks to make sure it will be accepted by the Australian government without a problem. If for some reason it’s not accepted? We’ll send you a full refund!

Here are some tips to get you started:

  1. Make sure to remove your glasses or any accessories covering your face.
  2. Ensure that there are no shadows covering your face (even lighting across your face).
  3. Keep a neutral expression whilst keeping the camera at eye level.
  4. Take your photo then follow the instructions in the Smartphone iD app.

Summary

Getting a firearm licence requires completing a very strict application process, so get it right the first time. Otherwise, you’ll incur extra costs you shouldn’t have to pay. With our Smartphone iD app, you can have peace of mind that we’ll deliver a high-quality photo that is guaranteed to be accepted. The best part is it’s cheap, quick and compliant with all national requirements!

Got a smartphone? Use Smartphone iD!

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