FIREARM DEALERS - NSW Police Force

FIREARMS REGISTRY 

FIREARM DEALER 

INFORMATION 

BOOKLET 

Firearm Dealer Information Booklet D/2012/146414 

Last updated September 2012 Version 5.0 

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Document Title: Firearm Dealer Information Booklet. 

Subject: Administrative guide for NSW firearm dealers. 

Command responsible NSWPF Firearms Registry. 

Available to: Unrestricted. 

Publication No. 0000235. 

Publication Date: September 2012. 

Version Number: 5.0 

Review Date: August 2014. 

ISBN/ISSN Number: ISBN 978-1-921309-09-0 

Copyright of this document is vested in the Commissioner of Police. © 2012. 



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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR READERS OF THIS BOOKLET 

This information is provided as an administrative guide for NSW firearm 

dealers and does not constitute legal advice. Information in this document 

should not be solely relied upon in determining whether or not to make an 

application for, or seek review of a decision to refuse a licence/permit under the 

Firearms Act 1996 or associated regulation. 

Other important information pertaining to key aspects of firearms dealer 

business and process requirements can be found on the NSWPF website, which 

also contains updates of this booklet and informative FACT sheets. 

This information does not constitute a decision of the New South Wales Police 

Force Firearms Registry in relation to any application and must not give rise to 

any such expectation by the recipient, based on the information contained 

herein. 

The recipient of this booklet is advised that they should seek comprehensive and 

independent legal, financial, technical, local authority and related trading advice 

in addition to advice on all appropriate insurances for conducting the business 

activities of a firearms dealer in NSW. Such advice should be sought before 

making any decisions based on the information contained herein. 

Persons intending to become a firearms dealer, or existing firearms dealer 

businesses should read this document and the related FACT SHEETS on the 

NSWPF Internet carefully. 

Recent additions to the process of becoming a firearms dealer or reapplication 

for a NSW firearm dealer’s licence include completion of a checklist and signed 

acknowledgement that the applicant has read this booklet and is familiar with 

the legislative obligations for firearms dealers in NSW. 

The recipient is also advised that any reliance upon this information is at their 

own discretion and risk. The New South Wales Police Force bears no 

responsibility for any loss, damage or other liabilities incurred as a result of the 

reliance by any person on this information. 



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Preface 

This information has been prepared by the NSW Police Force Firearms Registry to assist licensed 

firearm dealers, club armourers and theatrical armourers to understand the processes and procedures 

involved in the administration of their business, and the responsibilities placed upon them. The 

legislation regulating firearm possession and use in New South Wales comes from the Firearms Act 

1996 (the Act) and the Firearms Regulation 2006 1 (the Regulation). The onuses of responsibility is 

on all firearm licence and permit holders, particularly firearm dealers and club armourers, to have a 

good working knowledge of this legislation and any future amendments which may occur. 

The present firearm laws have resulted from the National Firearms Agreement which consists of 

resolutions made from the Australasian Police Ministers’ Council meetings following the Port 

Arthur tragedy in 1996. The purpose of this agreement was to make various resolutions in an 

attempt to align the firearm laws of all Australian States and Territories. 

The Act makes a distinction between a firearm dealer and a club armourer, with the difference 

between the two licences being that club armourers are not engaged in commercial dealings and can 

only undertake activities incidental to their duties as the club armourer of a club. The legislation, 

record keeping, security and reporting requirements for club armourers are essentially the same as 

those of firearm dealers. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, a reference to a licensed firearm 

dealer is taken to include club armourers and theatrical armourers. 

The information contained in this booklet is correct and accurate at the time of publication with 

relevant updates undertaken, as necessary. Should any licensed firearm dealer require further 

information or assistance they may visit the NSW Police Force Firearms Registry website at 

www.police.nsw.gov.au/firearms or emailing the Dealers Unit at dealers@police.nsw.gov.au. 

Alternatively, licensed firearm dealers may contact the Firearms Registry by phone on 1300 362 

562 (pressing 6 at the menu option – FIREARM DEALERS ONLY) during business hours between 

8.30am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday (except public holidays), by facsimile on (02) 6670 9811 or by 

mail to Firearms Registry, Locked Bag 1 Murwillumbah, NSW 2484. 

1 These documents can be obtained from internet sites such as www.legislation.nsw.gov.au or www.austlii.edu.au. 



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Contents 

Preface..................................................................................................................................................4 

PART 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................7 

1.1 Application for a Firearm Dealer Licence. ..........................................................................7 

1.2 Legislation Regulating Firearm Dealers. .............................................................................9 

1.3 Authority Conferred by a Dealers Licence. .........................................................................9 

1.4 Authorised Employees of a Firearm Dealer.......................................................................11 

1.5 Close Associates of a Firearm Dealer................................................................................13 

PART 2 - BUSINESS PREMISES and SAFE STORAGE. ..............................................................15 

2.1 Business Premises..............................................................................................................15 

2.2 Display Cases.....................................................................................................................16 

2.3 Gun Display Racks ............................................................................................................16 

2.4 Safes, Vaults and Strongrooms – General. ........................................................................17 

2.5 Safe Storage Requirements. ...............................................................................................17 

2.5.1 Free Standing Safes....................................................................................................17 

2.5.2 Wall Safes. .................................................................................................................17 

2.5.3 Under-the-Floor Safes................................................................................................18 

2.5.4 Vaults/Strongrooms. ..................................................................................................18 

2.5.5 Safe Storage – Ammunition.......................................................................................18 

2.6 Moving Premises. ..............................................................................................................19 

PART 3 - GENERAL ........................................................................................................................20 

3.1 Advertising Sale of Firearms. ............................................................................................20 

3.2 Identifying Firearms on the Premises of a Firearm Dealer................................................20 

3.3 Testing of Firearms. ...........................................................................................................21 

3.4 Use of Dealer/Armourer Stock. .........................................................................................21 

PART 4 - TRANSPORTATION AND DELIVERY OF FIREARMS/ FIREARMS PARTS. .........22 

4.1 Commercial Transportation. ..............................................................................................22 

4.2 Non-Commercial Transportation. ......................................................................................22 

4.3 Mailing Firearms................................................................................................................23 

4.4 Confirmation of Receipt of a Firearm................................................................................23 

PART 5 - RECORD KEEPING.........................................................................................................24 

5.1 PAB28 – Register of Acquisitions & Disposals of Firearms.............................................24 

5.2 PAB31 – Notice of Acquisition or Disposal of a Firearm – Standard...............................25 

5.3 PAB30 – Notice of Acquisition or Disposal of a Firearm – Bulk. ....................................25 

5.4 PAB32 – Quarterly Return of Acquisitions and Disposals................................................25 

5.5 P558 – Register of Firearms in Possession. .......................................................................26 

PART 6 - FIREARMS TRANSACTIONS........................................................................................27 

6.1 Permits to Acquire. ............................................................................................................27 

6.2 Transfer of Ownership within NSW. .................................................................................28 

6.3 Transfer of Ownership – Interstate. ...................................................................................28 

6.4 Safe Storage. ......................................................................................................................28 

6.5 Consignment. .....................................................................................................................29 

6.6 Repair/Replacement...........................................................................................................29 

6.7 Witnessing Transactions. ...................................................................................................29 

PART 7 - REGISTRATION..............................................................................................................30 

7.1 New Registration. ..............................................................................................................30 

7.1.1 Never Registered........................................................................................................30 

7.1.2 Registered Interstate – New Owner. ..........................................................................31 



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7.1.3 Registered Interstate – Same Owner..........................................................................31 

7.1.4 Received from Overseas. ...........................................................................................31 

7.1.5 Amnesties...................................................................................................................32 

7.3 Serial Numbers...................................................................................................................32 

7.4 Spare Barrels......................................................................................................................32 

7.5 Firearm Description. ..........................................................................................................32 

7.6 Frames and Receivers. .......................................................................................................33 

7.7 ‘De-registering’ Firearms...................................................................................................33 

FIREARM CODE TABLE ............................................................................................................34 

Annexure A........................................................................................................................................35 

Part 5 of the Firearms Act 1996.........................................................................................................35 

Annexure B ........................................................................................................................................40 

Part 4 of the Firearms Regulation 2006 ............................................................................................40 



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PART 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION 

The Act defines a “firearm dealer” as a person who, in the course of carrying on a business or in 

carrying out their duties as a club armourer (a) manufactures, purchases, transfers, tests, repairs, 

converts firearms or firearms parts; and (b) possess firearms and firearm parts for the purpose of 

manufacturing, purchasing, transferring, testing, repairing or converting them, and includes a 

theatrical armourer as defined in section 4(1) of the Act. 

In this regard, section 43 of the Act makes it an offence, punishable by up to 7 years imprisonment, 

for a person to carry on a business as a firearm dealer, unless authorised to do so by way of a 

firearm dealer licence. Accordingly, any person proposing to carry on a business as a firearm 

dealer, undertake activities as a club armourer or theatrical armourer must be licensed to do so. 

In addition, it is important to note that a firearms dealer licence cannot be transferred to another 

person. (Refer section 19 (2) of the Act). 

1.1 Application for a Firearm Dealer Licence. 

New applicants for a firearm dealer licence should contact the Firearms Registry for information 

about applying for a firearms dealer licence. 

NSW Police Force Firearms Registry 

Locked Bag 1 

Murwillumbah NSW 2484 

Ph: 1300-362-562 

Fax: (02) 6670-9811 

Firearm dealer’s licences are generally adjudicated on and issued by the Licensing Permits and 

Authorities Unit of the Firearms Registry for a period of five (5) years. Firearm dealer licence reapplication 

documents are forwarded to the postal address of the licensed firearm dealer 

approximately ninety (90) days prior to the expiry of their existing licence. This re-application 

should be completed and returned to the Firearms Registry as a priority, and no later than the 

expiration of the existing licence. 

The scheduled fee for a firearm dealer licence and theatrical armourer is $500.00; a club armourer 

is $100.00. 

Please Note: Clause 18 of the Firearms Regulation 2006 prescribes that if an application for a 

subsequent licence is received prior to the expiration of the existing licence, the authority 

conferred by the existing licence continues until the issuance or refusal of the subsequent 

licence. 

Failure to lodge the application prior to expiration of the existing licence will result in the 

licence expiring and the dealership becoming unauthorised to continue to possess firearms 

pending the issuance of the new licence. 



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A completed application should consist of – 

‣ A completed P560 ‘Application for a Firearm Dealer Licence’, or 

‣ A completed P643 ‘Application for a Club Armourer Licence’, or 

‣ A completed P649 ‘Application for a Theatrical Armourer Licence’. 

‣ If the application is made in a business name, a copy of the business registration certificate, 

or in the case of a corporation a copy of the corporations ASIC Registration (and ACN). 

‣ Nominate all ‘close associates’ 2 of the business on a P566 Firearm Dealer Close Associates 

form. 

‣ Evidence of completion of Firearms Safety Training courses for the types of firearms (i.e. 

Long arms/pistols) proposed to be handled in the course of the business and for each person 

(i.e. licence holder, all employees, directors, partners etc) who will undertake activities 

handling firearms). Not required on renewal if the courses have already been completed. 

‣ A PAB21 ‘Safe Storage’ inspection certificate obtained from local Police 3 . 

‣ Details of the types of activities proposed to be undertaken on the premises. 

‣ Confirmation that you have obtained appropriate consent(s) from your local government 

authority 

‣ Details as to the types of firearms sought to be authorised by the licence. 

‣ Completed P565 ‘Employee Authority’ application forms for all staff that has access to 

firearms in the course of the business. 

‣ If you apply for prohibited firearms to be included as part of your application, you must 

justify your need (or a market) for these highly restricted items on the checklist you are 

asked to complete when you first contact the Firearms Registry. 

Upon receipt, the Firearms Registry will review the application and liaise with the applicant and 

local police to address any deficiencies and address any concerns relating to the application. If the 

concerns relating to the granting of the licence cannot be resolved through negotiation, the 

Applicant will be notified of the refusal. 

Please note: Initial applications for licences, including firearm dealer licences, are subject to a 

statutory 28 day cooling off period from the date the application is received by the Firearms 

Registry. This does not apply to re-applications received prior to the expiry date of the 

existing licence. 

2 

‘Close associates’ are defined in section 4B of the Act: generally those persons with a financial interest in the 

business, or are involved in the business management, or who could influence the conduct of the business. 

3 Please note the recommended safe storage requirements relating to Dealers premises outlined in detailed FACT sheets 

on the NSWPF website: http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/services/firearms/safe_storage. 

NOTE: Firearms Regulation 2006 clause 37 ONLY applies to firearm dealers and Theatrical Armourers, not club 

armourers. 


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Last updated September 2012 Version 5.0

1.2 Legislation Regulating Firearm Dealers. 

Licensed firearm dealer activities are substantially regulated by Part 5 of the Act (i.e. sections 43 to 

49) and Part 4 of the Regulation (clauses 35 to 44). A copy of this legislation may be obtained at 

www.legislation.nsw.gov.au or alternatively at www.austlii.edu.au. 

Whilst the abovementioned provisions regulate the activities and outline the duties and 

responsibilities of the firearm dealer, Part 3 of the Act (sections 33 to 38) and Part 11 of the 

Regulation (clauses 101 to 108) have been created to specifically outline the firearm registration 

process. This forms a substantial component of the activities undertaken by a firearm dealer, as they 

relate to firearms. 

1.3 Authority Conferred by a Dealers Licence. 

Section 4 of the Act defines the meaning of Firearms dealer. 

Firearm dealer means a person who, in the course of carrying on a 

business or in carrying out the person’s duties as a club armourer: 

(a) manufactures, purchases, sells, transfers, tests, repairs or converts 

firearms or firearm parts, and 

(b) possesses firearms or firearm parts for the purpose of doing 

anything referred to in paragraph (a). 

and includes a theatrical armourer. 

Theatrical armourer means a person who carries on a business of 

providing firearms for the purposes of film, television or theatrical 

productions. 

As demonstrated in the definition, the primary identifier of a “firearm dealer” is a person who is 

carrying on a business, or carrying out their duties as a club or theatrical armourer, which involves 

the manufacture, purchase, sales, transfer, testing, repair of conversion of firearms, or possession of 

firearms or firearms parts for these purposes. 

In accordance with this definition, the provisions of section 8 of the Act prescribe the authority 

conferred by a firearm dealer licence as follows: 

Firearm Dealer Licence. 

Firearms to which the licence applies: 

• the kinds of firearms specified in the licence. 

Authority conferred by the licence: 

In the case of a firearm dealer other than a club armourer or a theatrical 

armourer, authorises the licensee and (subject to the conditions of the 

licence and the regulations): 



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(a) employees or directors of the corporation specified in the licence, or 

(b) employees of the partnership so specified, or 

(c) employees of the individual so specified, 

who are eligible to be issued with a licence and who are authorised in 

writing by the Commissioner, to possess, manufacture, convert, purchase, 

sell, transfer, repair, maintain or test, in the course of carrying on the 

business of a firearm dealer, and only at the premises specified in the 

licence, any firearm to which the licence applies, and to possess, 

manufacture, purchase or sell ammunition for those firearms. 

In the case of a club armourer, authorises the licensee to possess, 

manufacture, convert, purchase, sell, transfer, repair, maintain or test in the 

licensee’s capacity as a club armourer, and only at the premises specified 

in the licence, the firearms to which the licence applies, and to possess, 

manufacture, purchase or sell ammunition for those firearms. 

The authority conferred by a firearm dealer licence issued to a club 

armourer is intended for carrying out the person’s duties as club armourer 

for the club concerned. 

In the case of a theatrical armourer, authorises the licensee to possess, use, 

manufacture, convert, purchase, sell, transfer, supply, repair, maintain or 

test firearms (and blank cartridges for those firearms) in the licensee’s 

capacity as a theatrical armourer. 

The authority conferred by a firearms dealer licence issued to a theatrical 

armourer extends to any employee of the licensee who is authorised in 

writing by the Commissioner. 

A number of important details need to be emphasised regarding the authority conferred by a firearm 

dealer licence – 

‣ The licence ONLY authorises the firearm dealer to possess, manufacture, convert, purchase, 

sell, transfer, repair, maintain or test the categories of firearms (and or prohibited firearm) 

listed on the firearm dealer licence. 

‣ A firearm dealer and a theatrical armourer (not a club armourer) may have employees 

however, these persons must be eligible to be issued with a licence (see 1.4 below), and 

authorised in writing by the Commissioner of Police 4 . 

‣ A Club armourer is excluded from having employees and a back-up armourer. 

‣ The issuance of a firearm dealer licence ONLY authorises possession of firearms (for the 

purposes prescribed) in the course of carrying on a business 5 (or their activities as club 

armourer). 

4 Employees of a firearm dealer must complete a P565 form and forward the application to the Firearms Registry (with 

or subsequent to the issuance of the Dealer’s licence). An employee authority may then be issued and returned to the 

Firearm dealer. Note: Employees cannot commence employment involving the possession of firearms (for any purpose) 

until this authority has been received. 

5 The possession and use of firearms by a licence holder or an employee for any other purpose must be authorised by an 

separate licence issued to the individual and only used for the “genuine reasons” specified in that licence. 


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‣ A firearm dealer licence authorises the licence holder to sell ammunition for the categories 

authorised by the licence. 

‣ A firearm dealer licence issued to a theatrical armourer authorises the licence holder to 

possess, use and sell blank fire ammunition only. 

‣ A firearm dealer licence issued to either a person engaged in the business of a firearm 

dealer, or undertaking activities as a club armourer ONLY authorises the conduct of 

activities at the premises specified in the licence 6 . 

‣ A firearm dealer licence issued to a theatrical armourer authorises the licence holder to 

undertake activities at premises other than the premises specified in the licence, but only to 

undertake the activities specified in the licence. Additional information for theatrical 

armourers is contained in clause 35A of the Regulation. 

‣ A Club armourer may only undertake activities involving the manufacture, purchase, sale, 

transfer, testing, repair or conversion of firearms where those activities are incidental to 

their activities as a club armourer (to the members of that club). If the Club armourer is 

witnessing a firearm transaction, one of the parties must be a club member and Club 

armourers are only authorised to manufacture, purchase, sale, test or repair firearms 

authorised by their licence 7 . 

1.4 Authorised Employees of a Firearm Dealer. 

In accordance with the authority conferred by a Dealer licence issued in accordance with section 8 

of the Act, employees of an individual, corporation or partnership carrying on activities as a firearm 

dealer, may be granted an authority to perform all of the functions of a firearm dealer. 

As stated above, a firearm dealer, other than a club armourer, may have authorised employees 

however, these persons must be eligible to be issued with a licence 8 , and authorised in writing by 

the Commissioner of Police. 

The granting of an employee authority subjects the holder the same authority and conditions as 

what the firearm dealer is subject to, and allows them to carry out the day-to-day activities of the 

business. Similarly, however, the duties and responsibilities applicable to a firearm dealer extend to 

the employees and any action undertaken by the employee is attributable to the firearm dealer. 

Accordingly the employee, as well as the employer licence holder on application for their licence, 

must satisfy the following requirements: 

‣ the Commissioner must be satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person 

without danger to public safety or the peace; see sections 3 and 17B of the Act. 

‣ in the case of a person who has never held a licence (including a firearms licence 

under a previous Act), the applicant has completed, to the satisfaction of the 

Commissioner, such firearms training and safety courses as are prescribed by the 

regulations in respect of the licence concerned (including any firearms training and 

6 The holders of Firearm dealer licences, firearm collectors licences and ammunition collector permits can participate in 

an Arms Fairs that are subject to an Arms fair Permit. Firearm dealers wishing to move locations need to obtain written 

approval from the Commissioner of Police and the issuance of an amended licence. Dealers wishing to open additional 

premises need a separate licence for each new premise. 

7 Note: Club armourer licences will only be issued authorising those categories of firearms for which their club has 

been approved. 

8 Except those requirements specified in clause 43 of the Firearms Regulation 2006. 


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safety courses as are approved by the Commissioner in relation to the category of 

licence concerned); and 

‣ the Commissioner is satisfied that the person to whom the licence is to be issued is a 

resident of this State or is about to become a resident of this State 9 ; and 

‣ The employee MUST NOT, within the period of 10 years before the application for 

the licence was made, have been convicted in New South Wales or elsewhere of an 

offence prescribed by the regulations, whether or not the offence is an offence under 

New South Wales law, and 

‣ The employee MUST NOT be subject to an apprehended violence order nor at any 

time within 10 years before the application for the licence was made, been subject to 

such an order (other than an order that has been revoked), and 

‣ The employee MUST NOT be subject to a good behaviour bond, whether entered 

into in New South Wales or elsewhere, in relation to an offence prescribed by the 

regulations, and 

‣ The employee MUST NOT be subject to a firearms prohibition order. 

Additionally, the employee may be ineligible to be issued with an ‘employee authority’ if the 

Commissioner is satisfied that: 

‣ having regard to any criminal intelligence report or other criminal information held 

in relation to the person, that: 

• the person is a risk to public safety, and 

• the issuing of the licence would be contrary to the public interest 10 ; or. 

‣ that the applicant may not personally exercise continuous and responsible control 

over firearms because of: 

• the applicant’s way of living or domestic circumstances, or 

• any previous attempt by the applicant to commit suicide or cause a selfinflicted 

injury, or 

• the applicant’s intemperate habits or being of unsound mind; or. 

‣ the issue of the employee authority would be contrary to the public interest. 

Whilst section 11 of the Act prescribes that licensees must be over the age of 18 years, and NSW 

residents, the provisions of clause 43 of the Regulation exempts employees from the requirement to 

be over the age of 18 years. Similarly, clause 43 exempts persons employed by firearm dealers, 

whose business premises are situated within 50km of a state border, from the requirement to reside 

in NSW where they are a resident of another state and otherwise eligible to be issued with a licence. 

Each application for an employee authority must be by way of a P565 ‘Application for Employee 

Authority’ form (available on the internet and must be accompanied by proof of completion of 

approved safe handling courses and the fee of $25.00 prescribed by clause 99(1)(s)). 

9 Note: Clause 43 prescribes that if the premises of a licensed firearm dealer (does not apply to club armourer licence) 

are situated within 50 kilometres of another State or Territory, the authority conferred by the licence extends to a person 

who is a resident of that other State or Territory and who is employed by the dealer to work at those premises, but only 

if the person would otherwise be eligible to be issued with a licence. 

10 Note: In such circumstances, the Commissioner is not, under this or any other Act or law, required to give any 

reasons for not issuing a licence or employee authority on this ground. 



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Upon application persons applying for an employee authority will be subject to criminal and probity 

checks. Subject to the employee meeting the abovementioned criteria, the grant of an employee 

authority will be issued which extends the operation of the Dealer Licence to those employees. 

Upon issuance, the expiry date of the employee authority will be the expiry date of the employing 

firearm dealer’s licence. A new authority must be applied for each employee upon the reapplication 

for the employing firearm dealer’s licence. 

If the firearm dealer participates at an Arms Fair (principal or participant), the employees with 

authority for the business are also able to participate in the activities of the Arms Fair, but 

exclusively with the firearm dealer nominated on their approval. 

1.5 Close Associates of a Firearm Dealer. 

A ‘close associate’ of a firearm dealer is defined in section 4B of the Act as follows: 

“a person is a close associate of an applicant for, or the holder of, a firearm dealer licence if 

the person: 

(a) 

(b) 

holds or will hold any relevant financial interest, or is or will be entitled to 

exercise any relevant power (whether in his or her own right or on behalf of 

any other person), in the business of the licence applicant or licence holder, 

and by virtue of that interest or power is or will be able to exercise a 

significant influence over or with respect to the conduct of that business, or 

holds or will hold any relevant position, whether in his or her own right or on 

behalf of any other person, in the business of the licence applicant or licence 

holder. 

For the purposes of this section, the following terms have been defined as follows: 

relevant financial interest, in relation to a business, means: 

(a) any interest in the capital or assets of the business, or 

(b) any entitlement to receive any income derived from the business, 

whether the entitlement arises at law or in equity or otherwise. 

relevant position, in relation to a business, means a position whose holder 

participates in the management of the business (whether in the capacity of a director, 

manager or secretary or in any other capacity). 

relevant power means any power, whether exercisable by voting or otherwise and 

whether exercisable alone or in association with others: 

(a) to participate in any managerial or executive decision, or 

(b) to elect or appoint any person to any relevant position. 

In short, it relates to any person who has a relevant financial interest in the business, is entitled to 

exercise any relevant power in the business, or has a significant influence in the conduct of that 

business. Close Associates are also subject to criminal history and probity checks. 

In accordance with section 44 of the Act, any person wishing to apply for a firearm dealer licence 

(excluding club armourers) must give the name and address of each person who is a close associate 

of the applicant and particulars of the nature of each such person’s association with the applicant. 

Failure to comply with these requirements is an offence punishable by a fine of up to $5,500. 



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Further, a licensed firearm dealer must ensure that any changes to the close associates of the 

business are communicated to the Commissioner of Police (i.e. the Firearms Registry) within 7 days 

of the change in details. 

The Commissioner, at any time, may request a declaration from the license holder regarding the 

persons responsible for the management of the business and confirmation of the close associates. 

Any person receiving such a request must comply with the request for information within the time 

specified within the notice. A person must not, in or in connection with a declaration under this 

section, make a statement or provide information that the person knows is false or misleading in a 

material particular. 



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PART 2 - BUSINESS PREMISES and SAFE STORAGE. 

Before the Commissioner of Police may issue a firearm dealer licence the Commissioner of Police 

must be satisfied that adequate provisions have been made for the safe keeping of firearms by 

means of safe or strongrooms or otherwise. Club armourers may only be subject to the safe storage 

level of the type and category of firearms they are authorised for. 

For the purposes of determining whether adequate provisions have been made for the safekeeping 

of firearms by a firearm dealer, the following safe keeping standards are required by the 

Commissioner of Police to be satisfied that the premises is suitable for the conduct of a business as 

a firearm dealer and the safe storage of firearms. 

Section 19(2)(c) of the Act gives Police the power to inspect the premises of a firearm dealer at any 

reasonable time for the purpose of a safe storage and safe keeping inspection. 

2.1 Business Premises. 

The premises where the firearms are stored must be a permanent structure with secure locks on all 

openings (structures such as garden sheds, garages etc would not be considered a permanent 

structure). 

In order for the Commissioner of Police to be satisfied that the premises of a firearm dealer (not 

club armourer) are secure, the premises must have the following features must be evident: 

• All external walls of the premises must be of solid construction consisting of concrete, brick 

or steel; and 

• All perimeter doors must be of solid construction (i.e. solid core doors not hollow), securely 

hinged in stout framework and fitted with mortise locks or deadlocks; and 

• The framework of the doorways must be hardwood or steel; and 

• All perimeter windows and roof skylights must be fitted with security grilles (either 

internally or externally); and 

• The premises must have an intruder alarm system installed which incorporates the 

following: 

• Not less than three (3) internal movement/motion detectors, and 

• Multiple zone programmable (entire premises is to be monitored), and 

• Single zone trigger, and 

• Separate External and internal sirens of not less than 100db and external 

strobe light, and 

• Entry keypad with inbuilt duress code and panic functions, and 

• Any remote controls must also have panic buttons, and 

• Control panel box with backup battery, and 

• Built in system back-up battery, and 

• Perimeter switches on doors and windows, and 

• Line cut function or similar which arms the system if the phone line is cut, 

and 

• Components fitted with anti-tamper switches, and 

• Event log (no less than 20 event capacity), and 

• Off-site 24 hour monitoring. 



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2.2 Display Cases 

Any display case/cabinet to be used in the premises should be: 

• Of solid construction; and 

• All glass panelling must be a minimum grade of 6.38mm and be laminated 

• When mounted onto brick, stone or concrete, it should be attached by at least four (4) 

masonry anchors 90mm in length and 10mm in diameter. 

• When mounted onto main wall studs or wall bearers, it should be fitted flush against the 

wall and secured to the wall studs and floor bearers by four (4) galvanized hexagon head 

coach screws, not less than 65mm in length and 8mm diameter. 

• Must be fitted with metal lock which is either 

‣ an internal locking mechanism which is operated by means of a key, combination 

lock other similar locking mechanism (i.e. pin number etc); or 

‣ locked by the use of a hasp and staple (or similar) and fitted with a padlock. 

2.3 Gun Display Racks 11 

Any gun rack used to display firearms in the premises should be: 

• Of solid construction (either metal or timber); and 

• Any firearms on display within the rack must be secured at the top via a fixed barrier to 

removal (i.e. inserted through holes in a fixed metal or timber barrier) with the base of 

the firearm secured by either: 

‣ plastic coated flexible steel cable (not less than 4mm thickness) passing through 

the trigger guard/s and secured to the wall; or 

‣ chain of equivalent strength passing through the trigger guard/s and secured to 

the wall; or 

‣ Solid metal bar of not less than 10mm in diameter, or metal sash not less then 

3mm thickness and 2cm wide expanding across the length of the cabinet and 

secured to the wall/cabinet at either end by way of padlock or similar. 

‣ When the gun display rack is mounted onto brick, stone or concrete, it should be 

attached by at least four (4) masonry anchors 90mm in length and 10mm in 

diameter. 

‣ When the gun display rack is mounted onto timber or gyprock, it should be fitted 

flush against the wall and secured to the wall studs and floor bearers by four (4) 

galvanized hexagon head coach screws, not less than 65mm in length and 8mm 

diameter. 

Further, the provisions of section 48(2) of the Act prescribe that a licensed firearm dealer must 

ensure that any firearm displayed in any part of the premises to which the licence relates: 

(a) is under the immediate supervision and control of the dealer or an employee of 

the dealer, and 

(b) is not displayed to the public unless reasonable precautions are taken to prevent 

it from being stolen. 

11 Section 48 of the Act 



Page 16 of 43

Accordingly, when firearms are not under the immediate supervision of the firearm dealer, or their 

employees, the Commissioner must be satisfied that the licensed firearm dealer has sufficient safe 

storage to secure all firearms in accordance with the Act. 

2.4 Safes, Vaults and Strongrooms – General. 

In accordance with clause 37(2)(c) of the regulation, the Commissioner must consider “whether 

adequate provision has been made for the safe keeping of firearms by means of a safe or 

strongroom or otherwise”. 

2.5 Safe Storage Requirements. 

Due to the generally large numbers of firearms held by firearm dealers, and the availability for 

Dealers to trade in prohibited firearms, the safes utilised within the premises of a firearm dealer for 

the storage of Category C, D and H firearms, as well as prohibited firearms, must meet the 

following standards: 

2.5.1 Free Standing Safes. 

If the weight of the safe is less than 500 kilograms, to prevent removal it must be securely anchored 

by means of an expanding anchor bolt or bolts, of not less than 15mm diameter thread by 90mm in 

length internally fitted through a hole or holes in the read and/or bottom of the safe, which must 

conform to the manufacturer’s specification. 

The safe must be constructed of at least 75mm thick walls made of 3mm steel inner and outer walls 

filled with 35mpa reinforced concrete encased between them. The door should be constructed of 

10mm steel plate with 2 x 25 millimetre locking bolts front and back. These locking bolts are to be 

secured by a six lever key lock or other locking mechanism providing at least equivalent security, 

or a keyless combination. The door should be fitted with a maximum clearance of 1mm on all sides 

and the safes should be preferably fitted with time delay locks 

2.5.2 Wall Safes. 

Wall safes must be constructed of at least 10mm thickness structural grade mild steel with 

continuous welding, fixed locking bar and dogging bolts on a hinged edge, and fitted with a six 

lever key lock or other locking mechanism providing at least equivalent security, or a keyless 

combination lock. The door should be fitted with a maximum clearance of 1mm on all sides and 

should preferably be fitted with time delay locks 

The safe must be bolted or secured to the structure of the premises. 

• When mounted onto brick, stone or concrete, it must be attached by at least four (4) 

masonry anchors 90mm in length and 10mm in diameter internally fitted through holes in 

the rear and base of the container, securing it to the floor and/or wall. Otherwise the safe 

must be concreted into the structure of the premises. 

• When mounted onto main wall studs or wall bearers, it must be fitted flush against the wall 

and secured to the wall studs and floor bearers by four (4) galvanized hexagon head coach 

screws, not less than 65mm in length and 8mm diameter. 



Page 17 of 43

The methods of securing the receptacle should be by way of internally fitted bolts of screws through 

the base or back of the safe. The securing points should not be visible or accessible externally to the 

safe. 

2.5.3 Under-the-Floor Safes. 

Under-the-floor safes must consist of a container of structural grade mild steel not less than 3mm in 

thickness, with a door not less than 10mm in thickness, equipped with a six lever key lock or other 

locking mechanism providing at least equivalent security, or a keyless combination lock. The 

container and the neck of the safe shall be embedded in reinforced concrete of a minimum 

compressed strength of 35mpa and have a minimum dimension of 495mm x 622mm. 

2.5.4 Vaults/Strongrooms. 

A strongroom or vault to be utilised within a firearm dealers premises must possess the following 

features: 

• A room wholly enclosed within the structure 

of the premises. 

• All walls of the vault/strongroom must be of 

solid construction consisting of reinforced 

concrete, double brick or steel. 

• A single entry point to the vault/strongroom. 

• The door to the vault/strongroom must not 

be less than 75mm thickness and 

manufactured from heavy steel with 

hardened plate over all lock areas. 

• The door frame must be made of not less than 6mm steel and fixed to the structure of the 

room and floor by at least six expanding bolts of not less than 90mm in length and 

10mm in diameter. 

• The locks to the vault/strongroom must be constructed of solid metal secured by a six 

lever key lock or other locking mechanism providing at least equivalent security, or a 

keyless combination. 

• It is preferred (and highly recommended) that all safes be fitted with time delay locks. 

2.5.5 Safe Storage – Ammunition. 

Clause 38 of the Regulation prescribes that a licensed firearm dealer must ensure that any 

ammunition for any firearm that the dealer is authorised to possess under the licence is stored in a 

restricted area that is not easily accessible by the public. 

It is recommended that all ammunition be displayed/stored in the following manner: 

• In a locked receptacle which is separate to any receptacle containing firearms (albeit may be 

a separate locked cabinet within a vault or strong room); and 

• Such receptacle to be is constructed of hardwood or steel and not easily penetrable; and 



Page 18 of 43

• Fitted with metal locks which are either: 

‣ an internal locking mechanism which is operated by means of a key, combination 

lock other similar locking mechanism (i.e. pin number etc); or 

‣ locked by the use of a hasp and staple (or similar) and fitted with a padlock. 

The storage of powder (not including powder contained in complete cartridges) is regulated by the 

WorkCover Authority. A ‘Keeping Licence’ may be required if you intend to store on your 

premises more than 10kg of powder. All enquiries can be directed to their office on 131 050. 

2.6 Moving Premises. 

A firearm dealer may make application to the Commissioner to change the premises to which the 

licence relates. 

The request to relocate the premises of a firearm dealer business must be made in writing, and be 

accompanied by a PAB21 Inspection Certificate issued by the Police and the prescribed fee of 

$75.00 for the issue of a new licence bearing the changed address. Please note that the NSW Police 

Force may charge the prescribed fee of $100.00 for the inspection. 

All matters taken into account for the issue of a new firearm dealer licence (outlined) will be 

considered on application for a change of premises, and the transfer of the premises may be refused 

or new conditions imposed. 



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PART 3 - GENERAL 

3.1 Advertising Sale of Firearms. 

Section 54 of the Act prescribes that an advertisement for the sale of a firearm or firearm part must 

be by a firearm dealer or, it must nominate a firearm dealer to witness the transaction. This includes 

all types of advertising including newspapers, magazines and the internet. 

Additionally, clause 123 of the Regulation provides that such advertisement must detail the licence 

number or permit number of the seller. 

Clause 41 of the Regulation provides that where an advertisement has been published by a firearm 

dealer for the sale of firearms, it must contain the seller’s licence number. 

3.2 Identifying Firearms on the Premises of a Firearm Dealer. 

Section 47 of the Act prescribes strict requirements regarding the identification of firearms within 

the possession of a firearm dealer, and the cross-reference of those firearms to the records 

maintained by the firearm dealer business. 

In this regard, section 47 prescribes that: 

• A licensed firearm dealer must not take possession of any firearm for the purpose of 

maintaining or repairing it unless the firearm dealer has sighted both of the following: 

o the licence or permit of the person who is giving possession of the firearm to the 

dealer, 

o the current notice of registration of the firearm. 

• A licensed firearm dealer must not maintain or repair any firearm that is not registered. 

• A label must be affixed and kept affixed to each firearm in the dealer’s possession (other 

than for the purposes of maintenance or repair) showing the entry number for that firearm as 

entered in the record required to be kept under the Act and the identifying number (if any) 

of that firearm. 

• A licensed firearm dealer must ensure that each record required by the Act is kept in a place 

of safe keeping on the premises specified in the licence (but not in a place of safe keeping in 

which firearms are kept). 

• If served a notice in writing by the Commissioner, a licensed firearm dealer is furnish to the 

Commissioner, within such time as is specified in the notice and in the form provided by the 

Commissioner, such particulars relating to the acquisition, disposition or possession by the 

dealer of any firearms or firearm parts as are required by the notice. 

• A licensed firearm dealer must, within 24 hours after becoming aware of the loss, theft or 

destruction of any firearm or firearm part that was in the possession of the dealer, notify the 

Commissioner of that loss, theft or destruction in the form approved by the Commissioner 

for that purpose. 

Failure to comply with these requirements is punishable by a fine of up to 50 penalty units. 



Page 20 of 43

3.3 Testing of Firearms. 

A firearm dealer licence authorises the testing of firearms relating to the business and includes 

developmental work and research, however, only on the premises mentioned on the licence. Testing 

of firearms within premises will not be approved by the Commissioner unless an efficient bullet 

recovery box or bullet stop is provided on the premises and inspected by Police. 

Where this not practicable, the Commissioner authorises firearm dealers to test fire at a shooting 

range approved for such purposes. Such test firing is to be undertaken in accordance with such 

arrangements as have been agreed upon by the firearm dealer and the range approval holder and 

ONLY for categories or types of firearms for which the approved shooting range has been 

approved. 

3.4 Use of Dealer/Armourer Stock. 

Dealer and Club Armourer - 

Apart from test firing the authority conferred by a firearm dealer licence does not authorise the use 

of firearms registered to the firearm dealer licence (dealer stock). In this regard, section 4 of the Act 

defines a ‘test’ as: 

‘Test a firearm or firearm part includes carry out development work or 

research into the manufacture of a firearm or firearm part.’ 

Accordingly, a licensed firearm dealer stock (including a Club armourer’s stock) cannot be loaned 

or hired to any person. Additionally, these firearms should not be removed from the premises 

specified in the licence unless it is for purposes relating to the firearm dealer’s licence and business 

activities – repair, test at a range, etc. 

Theatrical Armourer - 

As well as test firing mentioned above, a theatrical armourer has an extended authority to use 

firearms as set out in clause 35A(1) of the regulation: 

In addition to the authority conferred under the Act, a firearms dealer licence 

issued to a theatrical armourer authorises: 

(a) the licensee and any authorised employee of the licensee to instruct 

and supervise actors and other persons involved in the film, television 

or theatrical production in the possession and use of firearms for the 

purposes of the production, and 

(b) the actors and other persons involved in the production to possess 

and use the firearms, but only while under the supervision and control 

of the licensee or authorised employee of the licensee. 



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PART 4 - TRANSPORTATION AND DELIVERY OF FIREARMS/ 

FIREARMS PARTS. 

All movements of firearms, whether for commercial or non-commercial purposes, must be carried 

out in accordance with the statutory requirements prescribed within the Act and the Regulation. 

In this regard, section 55 of the Act prescribes that a person may deliver a firearm or firearm part in 

person only, or by means of another person who appears to be able to ensure the security of the 

firearm or firearm part during the course of delivery. Accordingly, it is the explicit responsibility of 

the sender to ensure safe delivery of firearms or firearm parts, and that the person delivering the 

item complies with the legislation. 

4.1 Commercial Transportation. 

Section 56 of the Act and clause 125 of the Regulation relate to the Commercial Transportation of 

firearms, which is defined as any person who is engaged in the business of transporting goods. 

The firearm must be stored in a locked container secured to the vehicle or in a locked compartment 

within the vehicle, must not be able to be seen whilst being conveyed, and all reasonable 

precautions must be taken to ensure that the firearm is not lost or stolen during transit. 

Where any part of a consignment consists of firearms, persons engaged in the activities of 

commercial transportation must ensure that that portion of the consignment consisting of firearms 

is: 

• Transported concealed in a locked container which is secured to the vehicle or in a 

locked compartment within the vehicle, and 

• That all reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure that firearms are not lost or 

stolen whilst being conveyed. For example, crates of firearms being imported or 

exported from Australia or transferred interstate, must not be left unattended or without 

adequate security in warehouses overnight or for extended periods. 

4.2 Non-Commercial Transportation. 

Section 39 of the Act imposes a general requirement upon all persons in possession of firearms to 

ensure that they take all reasonable precautions to ensure that firearms in their possession are kept 

safe, not lost or stolen, and does not come into the possession of a person who is not authorised to 

possess the firearm. 

Section 57 of the Act and clause 126 of the Regulation prescribe the requirements relating to the 

non-Commercial Transportation of prohibited firearms and pistols. In this regard, non-commercial 

transportation of firearms occurs where any person other than those engaged in the business of 

transporting goods conveys a firearm. 

Such firearms must be conveyed unloaded, with the ammunition kept separate. They must be 

rendered temporarily incapable of being fired (eg. by removal of the bolt/firing mechanism, the use 

of a trigger lock, etc.) or be kept in a locked container that is properly secured to, or is within the 

vehicle. 



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Unlike the transportation of prohibited firearms and pistols and commercial transportation, there are 

no legislative requirements for the transportation of Category A and B firearms. However, the 

general rule applied in section 39 of the Act applies. 

It is recommended that ALL firearms be transported as described above to ensure all reasonable 

precautions have been taken against the firearms being lost or stolen in transit. 

4.3 Mailing Firearms. 

In accordance with sections 52 and 53 of the Act, it is an offence for an individual to send a firearm 

or firearm barrel by mail to, or receive from, an address in NSW or any other state or territory. 

However, it is not an offence for a firearm dealer to send a firearm or firearm barrel by mail to, or 

receive from another as long as the following conditions are met: 

• That the person sending or receiving the firearm or firearm barrel is a licensed firearm 

dealer, or equivalent in their state or territory. 

• If the firearm or firearm barrel is sent to a firearm dealer outside NSW, that it is not an 

offence to receive a firearm in the mail in that other state. 

• That the form of mail used requires delivery in person to the addressee. 

NOTE: If a firearm is to be supplied to an individual for sale, the firearm is mailed from one 

firearm dealer to another and acquisitions and disposals (PAB31 or Firearmslink) are completed. 

The individual then uses their valid Permit to Acquire with the second firearm dealer. 

4.4 Confirmation of Receipt of a Firearm. 

The provision of clause 39 of the Regulation requires firearm dealers to ensure that a firearm has 

reached its point of destination. Any firearm that does not reach its destination must be reported to 

the Commissioner within 24 hours of the expected delivery. 

This applies whether the firearm dealer is receiving a delivery or forwarding a firearm, both within 

and outside NSW. 



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PART 5 - RECORD KEEPING. 

The accurate, timely and comprehensive recording of all firearm transactions and the safe keeping 

of accountable books are statutory requirements. An accountable book is identified by a consecutive 

reference number printed on each separate page. The book is to be kept on the premises in a place 

of safe keeping, but not with the firearms. 

With the exception of the P558 ‘Register of Firearms in Possession’ book, all other accountable 

books for firearm dealers are obtained from our contract printers – Zions Pty Ltd 

‘Firearmslink’ is a computer program available to firearm dealers that replaces all accountable 

books, and allows for the electronic transfer of transactions via the internet. ‘Firearmslink’ will be 

discussed later. 

Firearm dealers must be in possession of accountable books, or have ‘Firearmslink’ installed before 

trading commences. The following are some of the records/registers to be maintained in accordance 

with the business. 

5.1 PAB28 – Register of Acquisitions & Disposals of Firearms. 

In accordance with section 45(1)(a) of the Act, this book is used to record all transactions and 

dealings concerning firearms and firearm parts to which the firearm dealer licence applies. This 

means all firearms on the firearm dealer’s premises that relate to the business are recorded – dealer 

stock, safe storage, consignment, repair AND firearms where a transaction is verified between two 

individuals. 

Each double sided page represents five firearm transactions. The left hand page titled ‘Acquisitions’ 

is used to record all firearms coming into the firearm dealer’s possession. The page on the right 

titled ‘Disposals’ is used to record all firearms leaving the firearm dealer’s possession – the fields 

on both pages are self explanatory. 

For example - if a firearm is still in the firearm dealer’s possession, the left hand ‘Acquisition’ page 

is completed only. The right hand ‘Disposal’ page is not completed until it leaves the firearm 

dealer’s possession. 

In accordance with section 45(3) of the Act, a record of any transaction that takes place on the 

firearm dealer’s premises must be completed in the PAB28 book within 24 hours of it coming into 

the firearm dealer’s possession. 

NOTE: The first column of the PAB28 book requests an ‘entry number’. The typical numbers used 

are the year, followed by a consecutive number. Eg. 06/1 then 06/2 etc. In accordance with section 

47(1) of the Act, as outlined above, this number, together with the firearm registration number must 

be written on a tag affixed to each firearm on the firearm dealer’s premises. 



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5.2 PAB31 – Notice of Acquisition or Disposal of a Firearm – Standard. 

This book is used by firearm dealers to inform the Firearms Registry of certain transactions relating 

to firearms. This form has traditionally been used to notify the Firearms Registry of Acquisitions 

and Disposals of firearms into and from the firearm dealer’s stock. An amendment to the PAB31 

now allows for the notification of firearms on the firearm dealer’s premises for safe storage, 

consignment and repair. 

The PAB31 consists of three identical carbonised pages for each transaction – 

1. The original must be forwarded to the Firearms Registry within 7 days of the firearm 

coming into, or leaving the firearm dealer’s possession – see clause 36 of the 

Regulation and section 45(1)(b) of the Act. This copy is scanned, recorded and then 

processed to form one half of the transfer process. 

However, section 45(1A) provides that no records of transactions or dealings 

concerning firearms or firearm parts need to be sent to the Commissioner where the 

firearm does not require registration, or until the transaction or dealing involves a 

change of ownership of the firearm or firearm part. 

2. In accordance with section 46 of the Act, all of the second copies are removed and 

attached to a PAB32 entry (see below) and forwarded to the Firearms Registry as the 

Quarterly Return. 

3. The third copy remains in the book as the Dealer’s reference. At the time of the 

annual Police audit and inspection, the Police Officer should check and sign off on 

any completed books. 

5.3 PAB30 – Notice of Acquisition or Disposal of a Firearm – Bulk. 

This book is used in the same way as the PAB31, but used to acquire or dispose of multiple 

firearms to the same identity. All firearms listed on the PAB30 must be identical in description with 

the only difference being the serial numbers. The PAB30 is often used by firearm dealers dealing in 

large numbers of firearms, and can only be used when the other party is a firearm dealer or a 

business. 

5.4 PAB32 – Quarterly Return of Acquisitions and Disposals. 

Quarterly returns are due within 14 days after the end of each March, June, September and 

December, and are used as a cross reference for Police records. A PAB32 entry is made as a cover 

sheet for all of the second copies of PAB30 and PAB31 Acquisitions and Disposals completed 

during that quarter. The PAB32 consists of two identical carbonised pages for each Quarterly 

Return – one is forwarded, the other remains in the book as a reference. 



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5.5 P558 – Register of Firearms in Possession. 

The P558 book is available free of charge from the Firearms Registry, and is used to identify 

unregistered firearms in the following circumstances ONLY – 

1. During official firearm amnesties. 

Each entry in this book consists of three identical carbonised pages for each 

transaction – the original and one copy are given to the customer, the third copy 

remains in the book as a reference. The second copy is retained by the customer as 

proof of intent to register the firearms, and the original is forwarded to the Firearms 

Registry with the application fee of $10.00 per firearm (cheque, money order or 

credit card authority only). 

2. To register firearms when moving to NSW from another state or territory. 

However, certain criteria must exist – 

• The interstate Firearms Licence must still be current at the time the P558 is 

completed. 

• The customer has applied for a Firearms Licence in NSW. 

• The firearms must be registered to that person in the other state. A copy of 

the registration papers or a letter from the interstate Firearms Registry must 

accompany the application. 

• An application fee of $10.00 per firearm (cheque, money order or credit card 

authority only) to be forwarded to the Firearms Registry with the registration 

application. 



Page 26 of 43

PART 6 - FIREARMS TRANSACTIONS. 

As set out above, all firearm transactions must be done through, or witnessed by, a firearm dealer in 

NSW. Clause 124(2) of the Regulation grants Police the power to witness transactions, but only in 

cases where the nearest location of a licensed firearms dealer’s place of business is more than 

100km from the ordinary place of residence of both the buyer and the seller. 

In witnessing the transaction it is incumbent upon firearm dealers to inspect the customer’s firearms 

licences and registration certificates for ALL firearms that they take possession of, acquire or 

transfer. If verification of the firearms licence or registration is required, or some doubt exists as to 

the documents produced, firearm licence validity can be confirmed via the NSW Police Firearms 

Registry website. Contact the Dealer Unit of the Firearms Registry should be avoided where 

internet facilities exist for customer convenience and process efficiency for firearms dealers. 

6.1 Permits to Acquire. 

A firearm dealer (including Club and Theatrical Armourers) does not require a Permit to Acquire to 

purchase a firearm. In all other instances, a Permit to Acquire issued to the purchaser is mandatory. 

The Permit to Acquire is issued by the Firearms Registry after application is made in the approved 

manner. Initial permits are subject to a 28 day cooling off period, and issued to a firearms licence 

holder to purchase a specific category and type of firearm. Second and subsequent applications for 

permits to acquire are not subject to a 28 day cooling off period if they already have another firearm 

of that category registered in their name. 

For the purpose of permit to acquire applications only, category A and B firearms are grouped 

together as one category. Eg. If a category B firearm is registered in a person’s name, the 28 day 

cooling off period does not apply if you make application for your first category A permit to 

acquire. 

If the Permit to Acquire is issued approving the purchase of a category A or B firearm, any category 

A firearm OR any category B firearm (depending on the category issued) may be purchased. If the 

Permit to Acquire is issued approving the purchase of any other category of firearm, the Permit to 

Acquire will also specify a sub-category of that category, and only that type or style of firearm can 

be purchased. 

Permits to Acquire must be valid, and the firearm dealer is to ensure – 

• The Permit to Acquire is current – check expiry date. Validity can be confirmed on the 

NSW Police Firearms Registry website. 

• That the firearm category listed on the Permit to Acquire matches the firearm supplied. 

• If the firearm purchased is not coming from firearm dealer’s stock, Section C is to be 

completed identifying the previous owner. 

• If the transfer relates to a firearm that has never been previously registered (rare 

circumstances) that the full firearm description is completed on the back of the Permit to 

Acquire/Notice of Purchase. 

• All fields, especially the registration and serial numbers are to be completed. 



Page 27 of 43

6.2 Transfer of Ownership within NSW. 

With the exception of an interstate transfer, all transactions are ‘two-sided’ where both the seller 

and buyer have obligations to notify the Firearms Registry of certain information. The transaction 

will not be finalised until both documents have been received at the Firearms Registry and 

processed on our computer systems. It is highly recommended that the firearm dealer forward both 

documents to the Firearms Registry, as many individuals are not aware of these obligations and the 

transfer may never be finalised. 

NB if both parts of the process are not completed registration certificates are unable to be 

completed, resulting in possible delays for firearms dealer transactions. 

Seller 

Buyer 

Dealer to Dealer - PAB31 disposal PAB31 acquisition 

Dealer to Individual - PAB31 disposal Notice of Purchase (PTA) 

Individual to Dealer - Notice of Disposal (rego) PAB31 acquisition 

Individual to Individual - Notice of Disposal (rego) Notice of Purchase (PTA) 

6.3 Transfer of Ownership – Interstate. 

Any interstate transfer of ownership is required by law to be completed ‘Dealer to Dealer’. For 

example, from an interstate firearm dealer to a NSW firearm dealer, or from a NSW firearm dealer 

to an interstate firearm dealer. This ensures that firearms coming into NSW are registered before 

being supplied to any individual. 

When disposing of a firearm interstate, a PAB31 disposal is to be completed by the NSW firearm 

dealer. Once the NSW Firearms Registry processes the advice, the relevant interstate Firearms 

Registry is notified of the movement of that firearm into their state. 

When acquiring a firearm from interstate, a PAB31 acquisition is to be completed by the NSW 

firearm dealer. As the firearm is unregistered at this stage, the PAB31 acquisition is to be faxed to 

the Firearms Registry with 24 hours of receipt of the firearm in accordance with section 36(3) of the 

Act. 

The Firearms Registry Dealer Unit fax number is (02) 6670-9811. The firearm is then registered 

and the number added to the PAB31 acquisition and faxed back to the firearm dealer. The firearm 

can then be sold or transferred – an unregistered firearm is not to be transferred to any other party 

except Police for destruction. 

6.4 Safe Storage. 

Firearm dealers can store firearms at their premises for customers, as long as the firearm is 

registered. There is a requirement to record the fact that the firearm is on the dealer’s premises. The 

firearms are entered into the PAB28 book, with some firearm dealers having a separate PAB28 for 

firearms on their premises for safe storage, consignment and repair. 



Page 28 of 43

6.5 Consignment. 

Firearm dealers can take possession of registered firearms for sale without the need to acquire them 

into their stock – they are held on consignment. 

Once again, there is a requirement to record the fact that the firearms are on a firearm dealer’s 

premises (PAB28). 

6.6 Repair/Replacement. 

Firearm dealers can take possession of registered firearms for repair without the need to acquire 

them into their stock. The firearm dealer is required to record the fact that the firearms are on a 

Dealer’s premises (PAB28). If the firearm is registered in another state and the owner is licensed, 

you are only required to make a record in the PAB28 – notification to the Firearms Registry is not 

required. 

If the firearm is faulty and is to be returned to the manufacturer or distributor, the firearm is to be 

acquired back into your stock (no acquisition for repair is needed) and then disposed of back to the 

supplier. The supplier will return either the repaired firearm or a replacement firearm, which will be 

disposed of or acquired by the dealers in the normal manner. Another Permit to Acquire is not 

required when it is being disposed of back to your customer, but the Firearms Registry will need to 

be informed in writing of the circumstances to correct our records. 

6.7 Witnessing Transactions. 

When a firearm dealer witnesses a transfer of ownership between two individuals, there is no need 

to acquire and dispose of the firearm through dealer stock – merely verify that all requirements have 

been met. It is necessary to record the transaction in your PAB28 book as your record. 

The seller must be there in person, with the firearm, firearms licence and registration certificate. 

The purchaser must be there in person, with their firearms licence and Permit to Acquire. 

Once the firearm dealer is satisfied that the licences, firearm category and Permit to Acquire are 

valid and appropriate, they will complete the ‘Notice of Disposal’ on the back of the registration 

certificate and the top and bottom portion of the Permit to Acquire. The ‘Notice of Disposal’ and 

‘Notice of Purchase’ (bottom portion of the PTA) are forwarded to the Firearms Registry. The top 

portion of the Permit to Acquire is returned to the customer as interim registration of the firearm. 



Page 29 of 43

PART 7 - REGISTRATION 

It is an offence to sell, purchase, possess or use an unregistered firearm unless there is a specific 

exemption mentioned in the Act or Regulation. The exemptions may relate to antique firearms, 

certain classes of persons or organisations, or certain items that fire a projectile but are deemed not 

to be firearms. 

Firearm registration in NSW is affected in most instances through a firearm dealer. Once an 

unregistered firearm comes into the possession of a firearm dealer, in accordance with section 36(3) 

of the Act an application for registration must be made within 24 hours. Until the firearm is 

registered and the firearm dealer has obtained the registration number allocated by the Firearms 

Registry, no further transactions or movements of the firearm are legally possible. 

7.1 New Registration. 

There are several methods by which initial registration of firearms can be achieved, and the 

circumstances of possession will dictate the method used by the firearm dealer. If a firearm is 

presented to a firearm dealer that is suspected of being unregistered, contact the Firearms Registry 

who will complete registration and probity checks using the firearm’s serial number. 

7.1.1 Never Registered. 

If it is confirmed that the firearm is unregistered and there is no other hold over the firearm (ie 

stolen, lost etc), the firearm is registered by the firearm dealer by acquiring the firearm into their 

stock from the person presenting the firearm. A PAB31 acquisition is completed and faxed to the 

Dealer Unit of the Firearms Registry – there is no need to post the entry as well. Please note that 

this is the only instance where a faxed copy of a PAB31 will be accepted at the Firearms Registry. 

The firearm is then registered to the firearm dealer, placed onto the Police computer systems and a 

registration number is allocated. That registration number is written on the faxed copy of the 

PAB31 and returned to the firearm dealer by fax. 

For those firearm dealers using ‘Firearmslink’, an interstate/overseas acquisition is completed. 

When completing the address details of the person presenting the firearm, do not use postcode or 

state, but place NSW in the space provided for the country of origin. 

Once the firearm is registered and the registration number has been obtained, it can be returned to 

the customer on production of a Permit to Acquire. 



Page 30 of 43

7.1.2 Registered Interstate – New Owner. 

Section 49 of the Act grants NSW firearm dealers an authority to conduct business with the holders 

of firearm dealer licences interstate. This is the only legal way for an interstate transaction to take 

place is firearm dealer to firearm dealer. 

The firearm is registered to the firearm dealer’s stock by acquiring it from the interstate firearm 

dealer in the usual fashion – PAB31 acquisition faxed to the Firearms Registry or an interstate/ 

overseas acquisition on ‘Firearmslink’. 



7.1.3 Registered Interstate – Same Owner. 

If a person is licensed in another State or Territory owns firearms registered in that other State or 

Territory, and has moved to NSW, there are two methods of registering their firearms. 

1. If the interstate Firearms Licence is still current and the firearms are registered to the customer in 

that other state, the firearms can be registered by way of a P558. The firearm dealer completes the 

P558 form which is in triplicate, and gives the customer the original and first copy. The original is 

forwarded to the Firearms Registry with proof of previous registration and $10.00 per firearm. 

2. In all other circumstances, the firearm dealer is required to acquire the firearm into their stock in 

the above manner as if it is a new owner. The customer can be issued with a Permit to Acquire once 

their NSW Firearms Licence is issued and collect the firearm. 

7.1.4 Received from Overseas. 

As well as Customs requirements, all firearms imported into Australia must have Police approval or 

approval from the Attorney General in some instances. The Police approval is called a B709, and 

ensures that the applicant is entitled to possess the firearm that they intend to import. The B709 is 

issued by the Customs/Import Officer at the Firearms Registry. 

In the case of an imported firearm never previously registered in NSW, the B709 is issued to a 

firearm dealer on behalf of the customer. It is the responsibility of the firearm dealer to collect the 

firearm from Customs, or have a broker perform the physical collection and convey the firearm to 

the firearm dealer. 

The firearm is registered to the firearm dealer’s stock by acquiring it from the overseas identity in 

the usual fashion – PAB31 acquisition faxed to the Firearms Registry or an interstate/overseas 

acquisition on ‘Firearmslink’. 





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7.1.5 Amnesties. 

Amnesties must be declared by legislation. The conditions of each amnesty vary, but the method of 

registering the firearms is by way of a P558 ‘Register of Firearms in Possession’ form. The firearm 

dealer completes the form which is in triplicate, and gives the customer the original and first copy. 

7.3 Serial Numbers. 

Section 45(2)(d)(iii) of the Act states that amongst other information, the serial number of a firearm 

which relates to any transaction, must be recorded by a firearm dealer. That serial number must be 

clearly visible on an exposed metal part on the firearm and in numbers or letters not less than 2mm 

in height (clause 128(3)(b) of the Regulation). It is recommended that the serial number be 

stamped on the frame or receiver of the firearm. 

If the firearm has no identifying serial number, the Dealer Unit of the Firearms Registry can 

allocate a number to the firearm dealer for it to be stamped or engraved on the firearm. 

7.4 Spare Barrels. 

Stand alone barrels are a firearm part, but they only require registration if they are a spare or 

additional barrel for a particular firearm. If a firearm dealer has barrels in their possession as stock, 

records of their possession must be maintained but there is no requirement to register any barrel 

until it is associated with a particular firearm or disposed of for a particular firearm. 

If this does occur, a form can be obtained from the Dealer Unit of the Firearms Registry which is 

completed by the firearm dealer and forwarded to the Firearms Registry. The spare or additional 

barrel is then registered and attached to the nominated firearm. 

Once a spare or additional barrel is assigned to a particular firearm, all barrels associated with the 

firearm are to be allocated a serial number, have that number stamped or engraved on the barrel and 

recorded on the registration certificate. Either a new serial number can be allocated by the Dealer 

Unit of the Firearms Registry, or they can be given the firearm serial number followed by a letter 

suffix. Eg. If the serial number of the firearm is 12345, the barrels can be numbered 12345A, 

12345B, 12345C, 12345D, etc. 

7.5 Firearm Description. 

The accurate description of firearms registered in NSW is vital. It is understood that firearm dealers 

may hold different opinions regarding makes and models, but a standard has been adopted 

regarding the physical description and the firearm’s working action. The approved Code Table can 

be found on the following page. There also exist checking mechanisms so that a firearm description 

can be confirmed. 

Firearm dealer Schedule is a document that is printed at the Firearms Registry each weekend 

listing all firearms that the firearm dealer has acquired into their stock during the previous week. 

The firearm description contained on the schedule is to be checked and if the firearm description is 

correct, no further action is required. If the firearm description is incorrect, corrections are to be 

made on the schedule and posted or faxed back to the Firearms Registry on 02-66709811. The 

amendments are then made to the Police computer systems. 



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Registration Certificates also contain a full description of the registered firearm. If an error in the 

description is identified, the firearm can be taken to a firearm dealer with a copy of the registration 

certificate. In this regard section 38 of the Act states that it is an offence to alter the original 

registration certificate. The firearm dealer can make alterations to the copy, sign and date the copy 

and post or fax it to the Firearms Registry on (02) 6670-9811 who will update the records 

pertaining to the registration. 

7.6 Frames and Receivers. 

In accordance with section 45(b) of the Act, frames and receivers are to be registered in the same 

manner as a firearm and cannot be disposed of unless the person receiving the item has a licence or 

permit authorising possession of the complete firearm. (see also clause 108 of the Regulation) 

However, a Permit to Acquire is not required to transfer the ownership of a frame or receiver – 

• If the frame or receiver is supplied to a customer from the stock of a Firearm dealer, a 

PAB31 Notice of Disposal is required only. It should be included on the disposal in the 

section set aside for barrel details – ‘Receiver Only’. 

• If the change of ownership is negotiated between two individuals, both the seller and the 

purchaser have obligations to notify the Firearms Registry that the sale has taken place and 

whom the other party is – the seller by completing the Notice of Disposal on the rear of the 

Registration Certificate, and the purchaser by letter, fax or email stating all the 

information. 

IMPORTANT NOTE : When a Firearm dealer fits a barrel to a receiver only, making it a 

complete firearm, a valid Permit to Acquire is to be completed by the Firearm dealer in the same 

manner as if the complete firearm has been acquired from them. If the barrel has been supplied by 

the customer of a third party, Section C of the Permit to Acquire is to be completed, nominating that 

third party. 

7.7 ‘De-registering’ Firearms. 

Where firearms are currently registered but there is no mandatory legal requirement to do so (such 

as changes to antique firearm legislation) the person in whose name the firearm is registered can 

make a written request to the Firearms Registry to have their name removed from the record. 

(clause 103A of the Regulation relates). Any such written request must be accompanied by a 

certification from a licensed firearm dealer or collecting society stating that the firearm meets the 

criteria relating to exemptions for firearms manufactured prior to 1900 as set out in section 6A of 

the Act. 



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FIREARM CODE TABLE 

FIREARM TYPE 

CO – combination rifle/shotgun 

PI - pistol 

RE – revolver 

RI - rifle 

SB - single barrel shotgun 

DB - side by side double barrel shotgun 

UO - under and over double barrel shotgun 

DE - derringer 

SS - coachgun (single short barrel shotgun) 

SD - coachgun (double short barrel shotgun) 

SM - sub machine gun 

MG - machine gun 

TG - tranquilliser gun 

PG - paintball gun 

BA - barrel 

DR - double rifle 

PH - powerhead 

WS - walking stick (cane, etc) 

CA - cannon 

NC - net capture 

TP - specialised target pistol 

LOADING ACTION TYPE 

BA - bolt 

BR - break 

FF - force feed 

ML - muzzle loading 

LA - lever 

LG - loading gate 

PA - pump 

RB - rolling block 

FB – falling block 

RC - revolving cylinder 

SA - semi automatic 

GA - gas 

AU - automatic 

RE - replica 

SB - sliding breech 

ACTUATION TYPE 

PROPELLANT TYPE 

CF - centrefire 

RF – rimfire 

PC - percussion cap 

FL - flintlock 

WL - wheellock 

ML - matchlock 

FU - fuse 

NE - non explosive 

PF - pinfire 

RE - replica 

AI - air 

GA - gas 

SP - spring 

GP - gun powder (modern smokeless) 

BP - black powder 

BF - blank fire 

RE - replica 



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Annexure A 

Part 5 of the Firearms Act 1996 

Firearms Dealers 

43 Firearms dealers must be licensed 

A person must not: 

(a) carry on activities as a firearms dealer, or 

(b) possess a firearm in the person’s capacity as a firearms dealer, 

unless authorised to do so by a firearms dealer licence. 

Maximum penalty: imprisonment for 7 years. 

44 Information about close associates of firearms dealers 

(1) In an application for a firearms dealer licence, the applicant must give the name and address of 

each person who is a close associate of the applicant and particulars of the nature of each such 

person’s association with the applicant. 

(2) If a licensed firearms dealer becomes aware that the close associates of the firearms dealer (if 

any) have changed since the firearms dealer’s most recent application for a licence, or 

declaration under this section, was submitted to the Commissioner, the firearms dealer must 

submit to the Commissioner within 7 days: 

(a) a declaration notifying the Commissioner in writing of that fact, and 

(b) the name and address of each person who is a close associate of the firearms dealer and 

particulars of the nature of each such person’s association with the firearms dealer. 

(3) A licensed firearms dealer must, if notice in writing is served on the dealer by the 

Commissioner, submit to the Commissioner, within such time as is specified in the notice and in 

the form provided by the Commissioner: 

(a) a declaration that: 

(i) the firearms dealer (and no other person) is the person primarily responsible for the 

management of the firearms dealing business that is carried on under the licence, or 

(ii) another person or other persons (whether instead of or in addition to the licensed 

firearms dealer) are primarily responsible for the management of that business, and 

(b) either: 

(i) a declaration that the close associates of the firearms dealer (if any) have not 

changed since the most recent application for a licence, or declaration under this 

section, was submitted to the Commissioner, or 

(ii) the name and address of each person who is a close associate of the firearms dealer 

and particulars of the nature of each such person’s association with the firearms 

dealer. 

(4) A person must not, in or in connection with a declaration under this section, make a statement or 

provide information that the person knows is false or misleading in a material particular. 

Maximum penalty: 50 penalty units. 



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44A Prescribed persons not to be involved in firearms dealing business 

(1) If a licensed firearms dealer: 

(a) employs a prescribed person in the business that is authorised by the licence, or 

(b) permits a prescribed person to act as an agent for, or participate in the management of, 

that business, 

the firearms dealer and the prescribed person are each guilty of an offence. 

Maximum penalty: imprisonment for 14 years. 

(2) It is a defence for a licensed firearms dealer prosecuted for an offence under subsection (1) if the 

firearms dealer proves that he or she did not know, and could not reasonably be expected to 

have known, that the person employed or permitted to act as an agent for, or to participate in the 

management of, the firearms dealer’s business was in fact a prescribed person. 

(3) In this section, prescribed person means a person who: 

(a) has, within the preceding 10 years, had his or her firearms dealer licence revoked by the 

Commissioner for any reason, or 

(b) has, within the preceding 10 years, been convicted in New South Wales or elsewhere of 

an offence prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section, whether or not the 

offence is an offence under New South Wales law, or 

(c) has, within the preceding 10 years, had his or her application for a licence or permit 

refused by the Commissioner, or had his or her licence or permit revoked, for either or both 

of the following reasons: 

(i) the Commissioner was not satisfied that the person was a fit and proper person and 

could be trusted to have possession of firearms without danger to public safety or to 

the peace, 

(ii) the Commissioner considered that issue of the licence or permit to the person 

would be contrary to the public interest, or 

(d) is subject to an apprehended violence order, or 

(e) is the subject of a good behaviour bond, whether entered into in New South Wales or 

elsewhere, in relation to an offence prescribed by the regulations, or 

(f) is subject to a firearms prohibition order. 

45 Recording of transactions 

(1) A licensed firearms dealer must ensure that: 

(a) all transactions and dealings concerning firearms or firearm parts to which the firearms 

dealer’s licence applies are recorded in accordance with this section, and 

(b) each record relating to a transaction or dealing concerning a firearm, a spare barrel for a 

firearm, a firearm frame or a firearm receiver is, in accordance with the regulations, sent to 

the Commissioner for inclusion of the particulars in the Register and in order to update the 

Register. 

1A) Subsection (1) (b) does not apply in relation to: 

(a) a firearm that is not required to be registered, or 

(b) a transaction or dealing concerning a firearm or other thing until such time (if any) as 

the transaction or dealing involves a change in the ownership of the firearm or thing. 

(1B) However, subsection (1A) does not affect any other requirement under this section to 

keep a record of the transaction or dealing concerned or to produce the record for inspection 

by a police officer. 



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(2) Each record must contain the following particulars for each purchase, receipt, sale or transfer of 

a firearm or firearm part by the dealer concerned from or to the other person dealing with the 

dealer: 

(a) the name and address of the other person, 

(b) the number of the other person’s licence or permit authorising the other person to 

possess the firearm or firearm part, 

(c) the number of the other person’s permit to acquire the firearm, 

(d) for each firearm or firearm part that is or has been in the possession of the dealer: 

(i) the dates of its initial purchase or receipt by the dealer and of its subsequent sale or 

transfer out of the possession of the dealer, and 

(ii) the name and address of the person who initially gave possession of it to the 

dealer, and 

(iii) when it is sold or transferred out of the possession of the dealer—its make, serial 

number, calibre, type, action and magazine capacity (if any), 

(e) such other particulars as may be prescribed by the regulations. 

(3) An entry required to be made in a record concerning the purchase, receipt, sale or transfer of a 

firearm, firearm frame or firearm receiver must, subject to the regulations, be entered within 24 

hours of the transaction concerned. 

(4) A record must be made and kept in the form approved by the Commissioner. 

(5) If a licensed firearms dealer ceases to hold such a licence, the former licensed firearms dealer 

must provide the Commissioner with a record of all transactions during the 2 years immediately 

preceding the date on which the licence ceased to be in force. 

(6) A person who is required to ensure a record is kept or to keep a record under this section, must, 

on demand made by a police officer at any time: 

(a) produce the record to that officer and permit that officer to inspect and make copies of 

any entries in it, and 

(b) produce to that officer all firearms and firearm parts in the possession of that person, 

and 

(c) furnish to that officer any information in that person’s possession with respect to any 

firearm or firearm part that has been manufactured, purchased or received under the 

authority of the person’s firearms dealer licence, or that the person has in his or her 

possession or has sold or otherwise transferred or repaired under the authority of the licence. 

(7) Any person making an alteration to an entry in a record required to be kept under this section 

must do so by interlineation or striking out and not by erasure. 


46 Quarterly returns 

(1) A licensed firearms dealer must, within 14 days after the end of the months of March, June, 

September and December in each year, forward a return to the Commissioner which contains 

the particulars for the preceding quarter that are required to be recorded under section 45 (2). 


(2) This section does not prevent a person from forwarding returns at more frequent intervals than 

this section requires. 

(3) The return is to be in the form approved by the Commissioner. 



Page 37 of 43

47 Additional requirements for dealers 

(1) A licensed firearms dealer must affix and keep affixed to each firearm in the dealer’s possession 

(other than for the purposes of maintenance or repair) a label showing the entry number for that 

firearm as entered in the record required to be kept under this Part and the identifying number (if 

any) of that firearm. 

(2) A licensed firearms dealer must, if notice in writing is served on the dealer by the 

Commissioner, furnish to the Commissioner, within such time as is specified in the notice and in 

the form provided by the Commissioner, such particulars relating to the acquisition, disposition 

or possession by the dealer of any firearms or firearm parts as are required by the notice. 

(3) A licensed firearms dealer must, within 24 hours after becoming aware of the loss, theft or 

destruction of any firearm or firearm part that was in the possession of the dealer, notify the 

Commissioner of that loss, theft or destruction in the form approved by the Commissioner for 

that purpose. 

(4) A licensed firearms dealer must ensure that each record required by this Act to be kept by the 

dealer is kept in a place of safe keeping on the premises specified in the licence (but not in a 

place of safe keeping in which firearms are kept). 

(5) A licensed firearms dealer must not take possession of any firearm for the purpose of 

maintaining or repairing it unless the firearms dealer has sighted both of the following: 

(a) the licence or permit of the person who is giving possession of the firearm to the dealer, 

(b) the current notice of registration of the firearm. 

(6) A licensed firearms dealer must not maintain or repair any firearm that is not registered. 

Section 47(6A) provides that any firearms that are not required to be registered are excluded from 

this provision. 

Maximum penalty (subsections (1)–(6)): 50 penalty units. 

(7) The regulations may prescribe other requirements with respect to licensed firearms dealers. 

48 Security of displayed firearms 

(1) A licensed firearms dealer who displays firearms on the dealer’s premises must ensure that those 

firearms are secured in such a manner as would reasonably prevent their removal otherwise than 

by the dealer or any employee of the dealer. 

(2) A licensed firearms dealer must ensure that any firearm displayed in any part of the premises to 

which the licence relates: 

(a) is under the immediate supervision and control of the dealer or an employee of the 

dealer, and 

(b) is not displayed to the public unless reasonable precautions are taken to prevent it from 

being stolen. 




Page 38 of 43

49 Interstate transactions between dealers 

(1)Despite any other provision of this Act, a licensed firearms dealer is, for the purposes of any 

transaction between the dealer and the holder of a corresponding licence outside New South 

Wales, authorised to purchase a firearm from the holder of that corresponding licence. 

(2) In this section, corresponding licence means an instrument that, in the opinion of the 

Commissioner, is the equivalent of a firearms dealer licence in a place outside New South 

Wales. 



Page 39 of 43

Annexure B 

Part 4 of the Firearms Regulation 2006 

Firearms Dealers - Special Provisions 

35 Change of premises 

(1) The holder of a firearms dealer licence may apply to the Commissioner to change the premises 

to which the licence relates. 

(2) Any such application is to be made in the approved form and be accompanied by the fee 

specified in clause 99 (1) (r) for inspecting the new premises. 

(3) After taking into account the same relevant matters as would have to be considered in assessing 

an application for a firearms dealer licence, the Commissioner may approve or refuse the 

application. 

(4) A refusal may be made on any of the grounds on which an application for a firearms dealer 

licence may be refused. 

(5) If the application is approved, the Commissioner is to impose a new condition on the licence 

changing the premises at which the business is to be carried on. 

35A 

Theatrical armourers 

(1) In addition to the authority conferred under the Act, a firearms dealer licence issued to theatrical 

armourer authorises: 

(a) the licensee and any authorised employee of the licensee to instruct and supervise actors 

and other persons involved in a film, television or theatrical production in the possession 

and use of firearms for the purposes of the production, and 

(b) the actors and other persons involved in the production to possess and use the firearms, 

but only while under the supervision and control of the licensee or authorised employee of 

the licensee. 

(2) A firearms dealer licence issued to a theatrical armourer is subject to the following conditions: 

(a) any firearm used in the production must be maintained in a safe working condition, 

(b) the licensee must comply with any requirements determined by the Commissioner in 

relation to the safe keeping of firearms that the licensee is authorised to possess, 

(c) the licensee must ensure that any employee who is authorised by the Commissioner to 

possess or use firearms under the licence is properly trained in the safe handling of firearms 

and is suitably qualified to carry out the functions of a theatrical armourer. 

(3) The licensee must, while acting under the authority conferred by subclause (1): 

(a) keep in the approved form a register in which particulars of the following matters are 

kept: 

(i) the types, and registration numbers, of firearms authorised under the licence, 

(ii) the name of each person authorised to possess and use any such firearm, and the 

periods for which each such person had possession or use of the firearm, 

(iii) the periods for which any firearm was removed from safe storage, and 

(b) ensure that the register is kept in a place of safe keeping (not being a place in which any 

firearms are kept), and 

(c) ensure that each entry that is made in the register is maintained for not less than 3 years 

after it is made, and 



Page 40 of 43

(d) if requested to do so by a police officer at any time, immediately produce the register to 

the officer and allow the officer to inspect, and make copies of any entry contained in, the 

register. 


Explanatory note 

Item [5] provides that the authority conferred by a firearms dealer licence issued to a theatrical armourer extends, as is the case at 

present under a theatrical armourer’s permit, to the use of firearms by the actors and other persons involved in the film, television or 

theatrical production concerned. The proposed clause also replicates certain requirements and conditions that currently apply in 

relation to a theatrical armourer’s permit under clause 53 of the Regulation. 

36 Recording of transactions 

For the purposes of section 45 (1) (b) of the Act, each record required to be made and kept by a 

licensed firearms dealer under that section is to be sent to the Commissioner within 7 days of the 

record being made. A record can be sent by electronic means. 

37 Additional restrictions in relation to issuing firearms dealer licences 

(1)A firearms dealer licence that authorises a firearms dealer to carry on business at specified 

premises must not be issued unless the Commissioner is satisfied that: 

(a) the applicant is carrying on or proposes to carry on the business of a firearms dealer at 

those premises, and 

(b) those premises are suitable for carrying on the business of a firearms dealer. 

(2) In considering whether or not premises are suitable for such purposes, the Commissioner is to 

have regard to the following: 

(a) the nature of the activities proposed to be conducted on the premises, 

(b) the kinds of firearms to which the licence relates, 

(c) whether adequate provision has been made for the safe keeping of firearms by means of 

a safe or strongroom or otherwise, 

(d) the security of the premises against unauthorised entry, 

(e) in the case of a licence that authorises the testing of firearms on the premises—whether 

an efficient bullet recovery box or bullet stop is provided on the premises. 

38 Storage of ammunition 

A licensed firearms dealer must ensure that any ammunition for any firearm that the dealer is 

authorised to possess under the licence is stored in a restricted area that is not easily accessible by 

the public. 


39 Requirement to check stock on arrival 

A licensed firearms dealer must, if the dealer has ordered a supply of firearms to be sent to the 

dealer: 

(a) check whether all of the firearms have been delivered to the dealer, and 

(b) if any firearms are missing from the delivery—notify the Commissioner within 24 hours 

of the delivery. 




Page 41 of 43

40 Inspection of certain firearms 

(1) The Commissioner may require a licensed firearms dealer to make all firearms that are in the 

possession of the dealer available for inspection, at any reasonable time, by a police officer at 

the premises to which the licence relates. 

(2) A licensed firearms dealer must: 

(a) comply with any such requirement, and 

(b) pay the fee specified in clause 99 (1) (r) for the inspection. 


41 Advertising by licensed firearms dealers 

A licensed firearms dealer must, in any advertisement relating to the business of the firearms 

dealer that is displayed by or on behalf of the dealer, state or display the number of the firearms 

dealer’s licence. 


42 Notice of unidentified firearms or spare barrels 

A licensed firearms dealer who acquires possession of a firearm, or a spare barrel that is capable of 

taking and discharging ammunition for that firearm, that is not numbered (or is not numbered 

clearly) must notify the Commissioner in writing of the possession of the firearm or spare barrel 

within 7 days of acquiring it. 


43 Authority conferred by firearms dealer licence extends to certain employees 

(1) The authority conferred by a firearms dealer licence extends to an employee of the licensed 

firearms dealer despite the employee being under the age of 18 years, but only if: 

(a) the employee would otherwise be eligible to be issued with a licence, and 

(b) the employee has, in accordance with section 8 of the Act, been authorised in writing by 

the Commissioner to do the things that the licensed firearms dealer is authorised to do under 

the licence. 

(2) If the premises of a licensed firearms dealer are situated within 50 kilometres of another State or 

Territory, the authority conferred by the licence extends to a person who is a resident of that 

other State or Territory and who is employed by the dealer to work at those premises, but only if 

the person would otherwise be eligible to be issued with a licence. 

44 Offences that prevent persons from being involved in firearms dealing business 

For the purposes of section 44A (3) (b) of the Act, the following offences are prescribed offences 

regardless of whether they are committed in New South Wales: 

(a) Offences relating to firearms or weapons 

An offence relating to the possession or use of a firearm, or any other weapon, committed under: 

(i) the law of any Australian jurisdiction, or 



Page 42 of 43

(ii) the law of any overseas jurisdiction (being an offence that, had it been committed 

in Australia, would be an offence under the law of an Australian jurisdiction). 

(b) Offences relating to prohibited drugs etc 

An offence in respect of a prohibited plant or prohibited drug within the meaning of the Drug 

Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985, or a prescribed restricted substance within the meaning of the 

Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Regulation 2002, in respect of which the maximum penalty 

imposed is imprisonment for 6 months or more, or a penalty of $2,200 or more, or both, 

committed under: 

(i) the law of any Australian jurisdiction, or 

(ii) the law of any overseas jurisdiction (being an offence that, had it been committed 

in Australia, would be an offence under the law of an Australian jurisdiction). 

(c) Offences involving violence 

An offence committed under the law of any Australian or overseas jurisdiction, being: 

(i) an offence involving the infliction of actual bodily harm upon a person in respect of 

which the penalty imposed was imprisonment for 28 days or more, or a penalty of 

$200 or more, or both, or 

(ii) an offence involving kidnapping or abduction, or 

(iii) an offence involving stalking or intimidation, or 

(iv) an offence of attempting to commit, threatening to commit or conspiring to 

commit an offence referred to in subparagraphs (i)–(iii). 

(d) Offences of a sexual nature 

An offence of a sexual nature, being: 

(i) an offence under Division 10 of Part 3 of the Crimes Act 1900, or 

(ii) an offence under section 38, 111, 112 or 113 of the Crimes Act 1900 that has been 

committed with intent to commit an offence referred to in subparagraph (i), or 

(iii) an offence under Division 15 of Part 3 of the Crimes Act 1900, or 

(iv) an offence under section 11G of the Summary Offences Act 1988, or 

(v) an offence committed elsewhere than in New South Wales that, if committed in 

New South Wales, would be an offence referred to in subparagraphs (i)–(iv), or 

(vi) any other offence that, at the time it was committed, would have been an offence 

referred to in subparagraphs (i)–(iv), or 

(vii) an offence of attempting to commit, threatening to commit or conspiring to 

commit an offence referred to in subparagraphs (i)–(vi). 

(e) Offences involving fraud, dishonesty or stealing 

An offence under the law of any Australian or overseas jurisdiction involving fraud, 

dishonesty or stealing, being an offence in respect of which the penalty imposed was 

imprisonment for 3 months or more. 

(f) Offences involving robbery 

An offence under the law of any Australian or overseas jurisdiction involving robbery 

(whether armed or otherwise). 

(g) Offences relating to terrorism 

An offence relating to terrorism, being: 

(i) an offence under Part 6B of the Crimes Act 1900 or against Part 5.3 of the Criminal 

Code set out in the Schedule to the Criminal Code Act 1995 of the Commonwealth, 

or 

(ii) an offence committed elsewhere than in New South Wales that, if committed in 

New South Wales, would be an offence referred to in subparagraph (i). 

(h) Offences involving organised criminal groups and recruitment 

An offence committed under section 93IK or 351A of the Crimes Act 1900. 



Page 43 of 43

FIREARM DEALERS - NSW Police Force

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