NSW Firearms Law Reforms 2025
Summary of the Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025
The Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 introduces the most extensive changes to firearms laws in New South Wales. Passed in December 2025 following the Bondi Beach terrorist attack, the legislation significantly tightens controls around firearm ownership, licensing, and compliance.
The Government has described the package as the toughest firearms regime in Australia.
Key Changes at a Glance
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Maximum of 4 firearms per licence holder, or up to 10 for primary producers and sports shooters.
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Licence terms reduced from five years to two years.
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Magazine limits: 10 rounds for Category A, 5 for Category B.
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Ban on belt-fed firearms.
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Straight-pull, pump-action and lever-release firearms moved to Category C.
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Firearms licences restricted to Australian citizens, with limited NZ exemptions.
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NCAT appeal rights removed for licence decisions.
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Mandatory gun club membership.
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Pre-acquisition safe storage inspection now required.
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Mandatory use of the Gun Safe platform by all clubs.
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State and federal buyback scheme.
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Comprehensive audit of all licence holders.
1. Caps on Firearm Ownership
NSW now has fixed limits on how many firearms an individual can own. Most licence holders may possess up to four firearms, while primary producers, pest controllers and sports shooters may hold up to ten. A government buyback will be implemented to allow owners to surrender excess firearms for compensation.
2. Reclassification of Firearms
Straight-pull rifles, pump-action rifles and button/lever-release rifles have been reclassified from Category B to Category C, narrowing access primarily to primary producers and certain occupational users.
3. Magazine Capacity Limits
New limits now apply to commonly owned magazine sizes:
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Category A: capped at 10 rounds
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Category B: capped at 5 rounds
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Belt-fed systems are banned
These limits affect a wide range of firearms commonly used by recreational shooters and farmers.
4. Stricter Licensing Requirements
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Licences are now issued for two years instead of five.
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Access is limited to Australian citizens (with narrow exemptions for NZ residents).
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The ability to appeal licensing decisions to NCAT has been removed; decisions are to be reviewed internally by NSW Police.
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Domestic and personal violence offences now automatically disqualify applicants.
5. Safe Storage and Inspections
Storage requirements have been strengthened. A mandatory inspection is required before a first Permit to Acquire, and police may conduct additional inspections at any time. Licence holders must nominate alternative storage arrangements in the event of their death.
6. Mandatory Gun Club Membership
All licence holders must now belong to an approved gun club. Clubs are required to use the Gun Safe online platform, which enhances tracking and compliance. Regional communities have raised concerns where club access is limited.
7. New Permit for Unlicensed Range Use
Unlicensed individuals must obtain a formal NSW Police permit before using a firearm at any shooting range.
8. Licence Audit and Buyback Scheme
A comprehensive audit of all firearms licence holders will occur, with higher-risk cases prioritised. A state and federal buyback will facilitate surrender of newly prohibited firearms and firearms exceeding the new caps.
The Regulations to support these changes are still being drafted, which may add even more complexity to these changes.
The removal of the appeal right for licensing decisions to NCAT means that applications for internal review need to be carefully prepared and contain all relevant evidence. For assistance with internal reviews or advise in relation to firearms or police matters contact our experienced team.
Angus Edwards