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We’re improving how firearms are managed in the ACT.
We are doing this work in partnership with the ACT Government as we support the implementation of the National Firearms Register (NFR), which will enhance safety and information sharing across Australia.
What is the National Firearms Register?
The NFR will be a central system that brings together firearm data from existing Commonwealth, state and territory registries into one national register.
It will improve management of firearms and give police near real-time access to national firearm data. This will help police to better assess risks and protect the community.
It will also enable the verification of licences and permits, providing greater assurance that people who possess and use firearms are authorised to do so.
The NFR program is a complex, multi-year initiative which is expected to be operational by mid-2028.
There are legislation, policy, data, and technology changes needed to ensure the NFR is effective and meets its law enforcement and community safety goals.
Each state and territory will continue to manage its own firearms registry and laws.
The Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission are leading the national efforts to establish the NFR.
For further information visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Enhancements to the ACT Firearms Registry
The ACT Government and ACT Policing are working together to deliver the ACT’s involvement in the NFR and to enhance the ACT Firearms Registry.
The ACT Firearms Registry will transition from a paper-based system to a fully digital platform.
Key improvements include:
- Enhanced user experience making licensing, permit processes and dealer activities faster, simpler and more accessible.
- Upgrading registry systems and using new technology to support integration with the NFR.
- Improving data quality to ensure consistent, reliable information that aligns with national data requirements.
Throughout the process, we’ll work closely with dealers, clubs, relevant stakeholders and the broader community to ensure changes are practical, well understood, and shaped by those who use the system.
ACT firearms legislation review
The ACT Government is reviewing the Territory's firearms and weapons legislation to identify and progress amendments to support the digital uplift to the ACT Firearms Registry and enable the rollout of the NFR.
This review is a key opportunity to update legislation, so it continues to meet community needs and responds effectively to current and emerging risks to public safety.
The ACT Government will engage with stakeholders as part of the review to make sure any updates to firearms laws are practical and reflect what matters to the ACT community.
What if I have a firearm that is not registered?
The ACT is taking part in a permanent national firearms amnesty to remove unwanted, unregistered, or illicit firearms from the community.
Information on how to surrender an unregistered firearm without penalty is available on our website.
Contact
If you have questions about the rollout of the NFR in the ACT, please contact: ACTNFR@act.gov.au