Firearms Act Reform

Public Safety through Legitimate and Responsible Firearm Ownership.

2016 Law Reform Commission Review of the WA Firearms Legislation, recommended a complete redraft and re-enactment of the Legislation, placing public safety at the forefront.

March 2022, the WA Government announced the commencement of the Firearms Legislation Reform. The Firearms Act Reform is the largest reform of the firearms legislation in recent history.

Apart from some amendments in 1996 following the Port Arthur massacre, the legislation has had no significant structural reform, only minor amendment since the 1970s. The proposed new Firearms Act will see significant changes to all aspects of the licensing and regulatory regime including the reasons for owning, renewing and/or retaining firearms, the secure storage of firearms as well as their safe handling.

Have your say period - now closed

The Minister for Police, Honourable Paul Papalia has outlined a number of proposed changes relating to the legislative reform of the WA Firearms Act 1973.

The public consultation period has now closed. It was held between Tuesday 17 October to Tuesday 14 November 2023.

We thank everyone who took the time to provide feedback on the Firearms Act Reform consultation Paper. 

Click to view the Firearms Act Reform Consultation Paper    

To provide clarity on the proposed changes, please read the supporting information:

NOTE: The list of FAQs and responses are not intended to be exhaustive.

Links to relevant legislation

Media statements