From 1 July 2017 the new Firearms Act 2015 and Firearms Regulations 2017 Legislation become law in South Australia.
The principles underlying these firearms legislation changes are the need to improve public safety through the promotion of safe and responsible storage and transport of firearms and ammunition. It is important that every licensee or applicant is familiar with their obligations under the new legislation. A brochure Firearms Changes 2017 – What do I need to Know? has been widely distributed by the SA Government and SAPOL and is available here
The key changes are outlined by SAPOL as follows:
- Firearms Prohibition Orders can be issued against a member or former member of a criminal organisation, including an outlaw motorcycle gang
- Boosted minimum standards for security, storage and transport of firearms and ammunition governed by a Code of Practice.
- Periods of automatic licence disqualification for those found guilty of serious offences.
- Introduction of mandatory reporting of unsafe situation where firearms are kept including where mental health issues are known.
- South Australia’s current state firearms amnesty, commenced in December 2015, will remain as an ongoing general amnesty from Saturday 1 July 2017. This will provide people with a permanent system to surrender unwanted, old or unsafe firearms.
Transition period
A 12-month transition period from 1 July 2017 will enable existing firearms licensees to upgrade their security arrangements or to take advantage of the amnesty to surrender firearms.
Williams Barristers and Solicitors are always up to date with new and current legislation. We can assist you with quality advice and defence related to any firearms charges including possession, use, storage or transportation of firearms.