Applying for a Junior Firearms Licence

In Victoria, Australia, obtaining a Junior Shooter's Licence is managed by Victoria Police's Licensing and Regulation Division (LRD). Here’s an outline of the steps involved:

1. Age Requirement

  • In Victoria, a junior shooter’s license can be applied for by anyone aged 12 to 17 years.

2. Parental or Guardian Consent

  • Applicants must have consent from a parent or legal guardian to apply for the license.
  • The parent or guardian will also be responsible for helping ensure that the junior shooter complies with the rules and regulations set by the LRD.

3. Membership in a Shooting Club

  • Juniors applying for this license must be a current member of an approved shooting club in Victoria.
  • They will need to provide proof of club membership when applying.

4. Purpose of the Licence

  • In Victoria, a Junior Shooter's License allows juniors to participate in specific shooting activities, such as:
    • Sports or target shooting (must be a member of a shooting club)
    • Clay target shooting (must be a member of an approved clay target shooting club)
    • Hunting (may require additional permits)

5. Safety Training

  • Juniors must complete a firearms safety course approved by the Licensing and Regulation Division, which is usually arranged through the shooting club.
  • The course covers important aspects of firearms handling, safety, and the laws surrounding firearm use in Victoria.

6. Complete the Application Form

  • The application form can be downloaded from the Victoria Police website or picked up at a local police station.
  • Ensure that all details are filled out accurately, as incomplete forms may delay the process.

7. Submit Required Documents

You’ll need:

  • Completed application form
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of membership in an approved shooting club
  • Firearm Safety Course completion certificate
  • Consent form signed by a parent or guardian

8. Pay the Application Fee

  • There is a fee for a junior shooter’s license, which varies depending on the duration of the license. Victoria Police provides details on current fees on their website.

9. Processing Time and Receiving the Licence

  • Once submitted, the application will be reviewed by Victoria Police’s LRD. Processing can take several weeks, so applying well in advance of any planned shooting activities is advised.

10. Supervision Requirements

  • Junior license holders must always be supervised by an adult with a full shooter’s license whenever they handle firearms.

For the most accurate and current information, visit the Victoria Police Licensing and Regulation Division website or contact them directly to confirm details specific to your circumstances:
Victoria Police Licensing and Regulation Division