In Australia, firearms belong to different categories which govern not only their use but also how they must be secured and stored. These categories are A, B, C, D and H, and firearms used by sport hunters typically fall into Categories A and B.
- Category A encompasses air rifles, muzzle-loading firearms (other than pistols), blank-fire firearms at least 75 cm in length, shotgun/centre-fire rifle combinations, and other types of firearms.
- Category B includes repeating centre-fire rifles, muzzle-loading firearms (except for pistols), double barrel centre-fire rifles and similar firearms.
- Category C has semi-automatic (self-loading) firearms, shotguns (with a magazine capacity no bigger than five rounds, as well as 10 rounds) and pump action shotguns (with a magazine capacity no bigger than five rounds).
- Category D firearms incorporate self-loading centre fire rifles, self-loading rimfire rifles with a magazine capacity no bigger than five rounds and pump-action shotguns with a magazine capacity no bigger than five rounds. Category D also includes any firearm to which a Category C licence applies.
- Category H – the final category – encompasses only handguns and pistols. This type of gun must always be kept in a steel safe.
When you’re looking to buy a gun safe in Australia, you need to make sure that it complies with the different Australian State and Territory Firearms Storage Categories. Speak to our team if you’re not sure. We’re always happy to help you make the right choice!