What is a firearms permit and how is it different to a licence?
Permits are issued where a legitimate reason exists, but the reason or firearm falls outside the requirements of the licensing scheme.
Here are two examples:
- A licence can only be issued to a person who is 18 years of age or over. Therefore, if a person under 18 years of age wishes to possess and use a firearm, they cannot be issued with a licence, but they may make application for a Minor's Permit.
- A NSW firearms licence can only be issued to a person who is a resident of NSW, or about to become a resident of NSW. When an overseas visitor wishes to participate in a shooting competition in NSW, they must obtain an Overseas Competitor Permit in order to lawfully possess and use a firearm in NSW.
The Firearms Act 1996 provides for specific types of permits such as Minor's, Tranquillisers, Overseas Competitors, High Calibre Pistols, Paintball Gun, RSL Display, Museum, Theatrical Armourer etc. Additionally, a permit authorising the possession and use of firearms can also be issued in such circumstances as the Commissioner considers appropriate.