Storage and transport basics

Storage and transport rules exist so that firearms and ammunition can't be taken or used by someone who shouldn't have them. The National Firearms Agreement sets shared minimum standards, but each state and territory writes its own laws and can go further. This guide covers the principles that keep coming up. Your registry sets the details.

Storage at home

Storage is part of getting a licence. Under the National Firearms Agreement, the licensing authority must be satisfied with your proposed storage and security arrangements before a new licence is issued and again at renewal. Failing to store firearms as required is an offence and can lead to the licence being cancelled.

The principles that appear in the agreement and in state registry guidance:

• Locked away when not in use. Firearms are kept in a locked receptacle or safe when you aren't using, cleaning or carrying them. The type of container required depends on your state's rules and the category of firearm.

• Ammunition separate and locked. Ammunition goes in its own locked container, separate from the firearms.

• No access for anyone else. The national safety code says never to allow unauthorised access to your firearms or ammunition. Keep the keys secure.

• Inspections. Police can inspect storage arrangements. The national agreement requires states and territories to run an inspection and audit program.

Because the container rules differ, don't buy a safe until you know what your state requires for the firearms you plan to own. Your club and your registry can tell you.

Getting to and from the range

Transport guidance from several state registries and the national safety code shares the same core points:

The National Firearms Safety Code, a Commonwealth publication from 2002, adds that a vehicle is not a secure place to store firearms, and says never to take a loaded firearm into a car.

Away from home

The national agreement requires every licence holder to take reasonable care that a firearm isn't lost or stolen, or picked up by someone unauthorised, when it's away from its usual storage. The National Firearms Safety Code suggests planning how you'll secure firearms before a trip, and notes that locking them up in your accommodation may be safer than leaving them in the car.

If you travel interstate to shoot, check first. The National Firearms Safety Code notes that each state and territory has its own firearms legislation, that transport rules can differ, and that you should contact the relevant registry before you travel.

Where to check

• Your state or territory firearms registry publishes its storage and transport rules. The State firearms registries list links to every registry.

• Your club can explain how local members store and carry firearms, and what the range expects when you arrive and leave.

• Read Safe handling rules for the handling side of transport, such as keeping actions open and checking firearms are unloaded.