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The Control of Weapons Act

This section is for persons wishing to obtain approval from the Chief Commissioner to possess, use, carry, manufacture, display, sell, advertise for sale or import a prohibited weapon.

The Control of Weapons Act is the framework for the control of non-firearm weapons. The Act aims to reduce their general availability to the public, which will decrease the risks of crime and injury due to misuse.

Stakeholder Communication Strategy

Licensing Services Division is committed to creating a safer Victoria through responsible management of the firearm, private security and weapons industries.  LSD recognises the need to ensure that its level of service meets the reasonable requirements of its customers and stakeholders.  Accordingly, LSD proposes to develop stakeholder and business partner relationships that are based on timely, relevant and open communication, and are predicated on clear understanding of each parties business focus and functions.

For a full copy of the Stakeholder Communication Strategy, click here.

The Control of Weapons Act divides non-firearm weapons into three categories:

Prohibited weapons

These weapons are considered inappropriate for general possession and use without a Governor in Council Exemption or a Chief Commissioners Approval. An application for a Chief Commissioners Approval is available from the Licensing Services Division (LSD).

Controlled weapons

These weapons can be used for legitimate purposes, but require regulation because they pose a possible danger to the community.

Dangerous articles

These are any other articles, which are adapted or modified and can potentially be used as a weapon. These include any other item which is carried with the intention of being used as a weapon.

How can weapons be identified?

Please use the Victoria Police Weapon Identification - Weapon Search function to identify your weapon.

What are the requirements for possessing or trading in prohibited weapons?

A Chief Commissioner's Approval application form must be completed to possess, use, carry, manufacture, display, sell, advertise for sale or import a prohibited weapon by either an individual or a body corporate.

Weapons Search Areas

Recent changes to the Control of Weapons Act 1990 provide members of Victoria Police with the power to search persons for weapons in public places in temporarily designated areas. MORE

Contact us

Licensing Services Division
GPO Box 2807AA
Melbourne, VIC, 3001

Phone: 1300 651 645
Email: licensingservices@police.vic.gov.au