Victoria Police have announced changes to firearms storage will be in place from August 30 2022.
From the date, firearms must be stored in a purpose-built steel storage receptacle with the thickness of the steel at least 1.6mm (which complies with Australian/New Zealand Standard 1594:2002).
If the receptacle weighs less than 150 kilograms when it is empty, it must be bolted to the structure of the premises. The receptacle must be locked with a lock of sturdy construction when the firearm is stored in it.
Before the date, firearms owners must check their current storage against the new requirements and ensure their receptacles are purpose-built for firearm storage.
The changes also apply to people who are newly licensed or applying for a licence and people who plan to buy or get a firearm.
Hardwood will no longer be accepted as a suitable material for a receptacle, and the changes will bring category A and B longarms into line with current requirements for category C, D, and general category handguns, with the receptacle locked with a lock of sturdy construction.
Failure to comply with storage requirements could result in offenders facing 60 penalty units or 12 months imprisonment increasing up to 240 penalty units or four years’ imprisonment depending on the category of firearm being carried and used.
Victoria Police’s divisional firearms officers can provide advice about individual circumstances and can be contacted at 9881 7037 or by visiting Knox police station.
