Importing imitation firearms to Australia
The Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (the Regulations) controls the importation of imitation firearms. Importers must get permission before bringing imitation firearms into Australia.
Imitation firearms
Imitation firearms are defined as a copy or reproduction of a firearm, or an article that has the appearance of a firearm that could reasonably be taken to be a firearm. This can include goods such as:
- ornaments
- toys
- video game controllers.
Appearance is regardless of the colour of the article.
Imitation firearms do not include items that can discharge projectiles by means compressed gas or explosive charge – these are generally treated as firearms. We may still consider items that discharge a projectile by other means, such as by a spring, as imitation firearms. Imitation firearms may include articles known as
NERF style toys. These articles shoot soft darts and have the appearance of a firearm and could reasonably be taken to be a firearm.
Gel ball blasters are controlled as skirmish markers, alongside soft air firearms. We do not consider these goods to be imitations and treat them as firearms on import. These goods must comply with serial number and safety testing requirements.
Imitation firearms do not include deactivated firearms or blank-fire firearms. We treat these goods as firearms under the Regulations.
Interchangeable parts and accessories
Any firearm parts, accessories or magazine that you can use with a real firearm will be subject to control based on the firearm they are for use with. You will need written permission to import parts, accessories and magazines for use with a real firearm.
For more information see
Importing ammunition, magazines, firearm parts and firearm accessories to Australia.
Obtaining permission to import
To import imitation firearms into Australia, importers must first obtain a B709A - Importation of Firearms – Police Confirmation and Certification form. Importers must present the original B709A form to the ABF at the time of importation.
You can obtain forms from your
state or territory police firearms and weapons registry.
