Guns and Firearms Offences in Queensland
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In Queensland, the possession, use, and supply of guns and firearms are tightly regulated under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) and the Weapons Categories Regulation 1997 (Qld).

Guns and Firearms Offences in Queensland

Strict licensing, registration, and storage requirements apply, and breaches carry severe penalties, including long prison terms.

Under the Weapons Act, firearms are divided into categories (A through H), with each category requiring a specific licence. Possessing, using, or acquiring a firearm without the correct licence or registration is unlawful.

  • Category A & B (s.7–8): Air rifles, break-action shotguns, and single-shot or bolt-action rifles.
  • Category C (s.10): Semi-automatic rimfire rifles, pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns (restricted to occupational licence holders).
  • Category D (s.11): Self-loading centre-fire rifles and higher-capacity shotguns, highly restricted.
  • Category H (s.13): Handguns, including pistols and revolvers.
Unlawful possession of a firearm, or breaching licence conditions, is a serious criminal offence punishable by imprisonment and long-term firearm bans. If you’ve been charged with a firearm offence, it’s vital to understand the law and get immediate legal advice.

Common Guns and Firearms Offences

Some of the most frequently prosecuted firearm offences in Queensland include:
Unlawful possession of a firearm (s.50)
It is an offence to carry or possess a firearm without the appropriate licence or without the firearm being registered. The maximum penalty for this offence is up to 13 years’ imprisonment.
Unlawful use or discharge (s.58)
Using or discharging a firearm dangerously or recklessly, such as in a public place, can result in severe penalties. A conviction may lead to imprisonment for up to 7 years.
Failure to secure firearms (s.60)
Queensland law requires all firearms to be stored securely in accordance with strict standards. Failure to do so is an offence and may result in fines, imprisonment, and cancellation of a firearms licence. Queensland law requires all firearms to be stored securely in accordance with strict standards. Failure to do so is an offence and may result in fines, imprisonment, and cancellation of a firearms licence.
Possession of shortened firearms (s.50B(1)(e))
Certain modifications, such as sawn-off shotguns, are treated as aggravated offences. Possession of these firearms carries harsher penalties, including imprisonment for up to 13 years.

Restricted and Prohibited Firearms in Queensland

Under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) and the Weapons Categories Regulation 1997 (Qld), some firearms are classified as restricted or prohibited. These are subject to the highest level of control and are rarely authorised for civilian use.
Examples include:
  • Machine guns and submachine guns
  • Self-loading centre-fire rifles
  • Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns with higher magazine capacity
  • Shortened firearms (e.g., sawn-off shotguns)
  • Military-style firearms and heavy-calibre weapons
Possession of any of these firearms without the appropriate licence or exemption is a serious criminal offence, carrying penalties of up to 13 years’ imprisonment.

Facing a Gun or Firearms Charge?

A conviction for a firearms offence in Queensland can result in jail, loss of your firearms licence, and lasting consequences for employment, security clearances, and even travel.

If you’ve been charged, it’s crucial to act quickly. Garde Wilson Lawyers has extensive experience defending firearms charges under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld). Our team provides strong, strategic representation to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Firearms offences in Queensland involve the unlawful possession, use, manufacture, supply, or modification of a weapon. These offences are regulated under the Weapons Act 1990 (Qld) and can result in serious criminal penalties, including imprisonment and permanent loss of firearm licences.

Yes. You must hold a valid firearms licence to own, possess, or use a gun in Queensland. Licences are issued for specific categories of weapons and purposes — such as sports shooting, primary production, or occupational use. Possessing a firearm without a licence is a criminal offence.

Yes, you may still face charges if a firearm is found in your property or vehicle. However, your lawyer can argue lack of knowledge or intent, which can be a valid defence. The prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed the weapon.

Stay calm and do not make statements without legal advice. Contact a criminal defence lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used in court. A lawyer will guide you on how to respond, protect your rights, and begin preparing your defence.

If you have a prior conviction, especially for a violent or weapons-related offence, penalties will be more severe. You may also be classified as a prohibited person, meaning it’s illegal to possess or use any firearm. Immediate legal advice is essential in such cases.

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