In Australia, private citizens generally cannot carry guns in public, whether openly or concealed. Self-defence is not accepted as a valid reason to have or carry a firearm.
Basic legality
Australian law allows firearm ownership only with a licence, and each firearm must be registered to its owner. To get a licence, a person must show a “genuine reason” such as hunting, farm work, or sport shooting, and self- defence is specifically excluded.
Carrying guns in public
Across all states and territories it is illegal to carry a gun in public, concealed or openly, except for narrow roles like police and some security work. Even licensed owners are generally limited to transporting unloaded, secured firearms directly to and from approved places such as shooting ranges or properties where they are allowed to use them.
Penalties and enforcement
Carrying a gun in public without a lawful excuse can lead to heavy fines and jail terms, with details varying by state. Laws have been tightened repeatedly since the 1996 National Firearms Agreement, and further reforms are being considered after recent shootings.
