Perth firearms safe storage laws - Western Australia

Public Safety Western Australia 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

In Perth, Western Australia, firearm owners must follow state storage and security rules set out and enforced by WA Police and by state legislation. This guide summarises the legal expectations for secure storage, who enforces the rules, how penalties and appeals work, and practical steps for licence holders and householders to reduce risk and remain compliant.

Overview

Firearm storage obligations in Perth arise from the Firearms Act 1973 and associated regulations, and are administered by WA Police Firearms Licensing. Requirements focus on secure lock-up, preventing unauthorised access, and keeping records of firearms and ammunition. Local councils do not set separate firearm storage standards, but they can receive reports of unsafe storage and refer matters to WA Police.[1][2]

What safe storage means in practice

  • Store firearms in a purpose-built locked safe or strong-room when not under immediate control.
  • Keep ammunition stored separately from firearms where practical.
  • Maintain a written record of each firearm and where it is stored.
  • Prevent access by unauthorised persons, including children and visitors.
Secure storage is the primary legal duty for all licence holders.

Penalties & Enforcement

WA Police are the primary enforcer for firearm storage offences; complaints are investigated by Firearms Licensing and local police investigators. The Firearms Act 1973 and regulations set offences and enforcement powers, but specific monetary fines and ranges for storage breaches are not specified on the cited pages below.[2][1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: seizure of firearms, licence suspension or cancellation, prohibition orders and court action are available under the Act.
  • Enforcer: WA Police Firearms Licensing and sworn police officers conduct inspections and investigations; complaints can be made to WA Police via their firearms contact points.[1]
  • Appeal/review: licence holders may seek review or appeal decisions through the administrative review routes indicated by WA Police or by applying to the relevant tribunal or court; time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If police view storage as unsafe they may seize firearms and begin proceedings.

Applications & Forms

Firearms licence applications, variation and surrender forms are published and managed by WA Police Firearms Licensing; fee details and specific form names are available on the WA Police firearms pages and the official legislation where applicable. If a particular form name or current fee is required, consult WA Police Firearms Licensing directly as fees and form details are updated by the agency.[1]

Compliance checklist and action steps

  • Inspect your safe and locks regularly and ensure keys/combinations are secure.
  • Keep licence and registration documents accessible to show police on lawful request.
  • Report unsafe storage or lost/stolen firearms to WA Police immediately via their firearms contact route.[1]
  • If you change address, notify WA Police and update storage arrangements to remain compliant.
Notify authorities promptly if a firearm is lost or stolen to reduce legal risk.

FAQ

Do Perth councils set firearm storage rules?
No, firearm storage rules are set by Western Australian state law and administered by WA Police; councils may refer complaints to police.
What should I do if my safe is damaged?
Repair or replace the safe immediately and inform WA Police if firearms were at risk or the security breach led to loss or theft.
Are there specific safe standards I must meet?
Standards for secure storage are described by WA Police and in the regulations; see WA Police guidance for details and any technical requirements.

How-To

  1. Locate your firearm licence and registration details.
  2. Inspect the storage: verify a locked safe, separate ammunition, and secure keys/combinations.
  3. Compare your setup to WA Police published guidance and any technical standards they reference.[1]
  4. If unsure, contact WA Police Firearms Licensing for an advisory inspection or further guidance.
  5. Document corrective actions and keep records of dates and any receipts for new safes or locks.
Keep a dated log of inspections and any maintenance to the storage system.

Key Takeaways

  • WA Police and state law govern firearm storage in Perth.
  • Secure lock-up, separate ammunition and prevention of unauthorised access are core duties.
  • Report loss, theft or unsafe storage to WA Police promptly.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] WA Police - Firearms information
  2. [2] Firearms Act 1973 (Western Australia)
  3. [3] WA Police - Firearms Licensing contact

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