Moving to and from Queensland

Moving from interstate

Unfortunately, there is no way to 'transfer' licenses between states. If you are moving to Queensland and have a current interstate licence, you will need to submit an application for a new licence in Queensland. You may not be required to complete a weapons safety course provided you have a current interstate firearms licence, and: 

• For category A, B or M weapons, you have lodged your new licence application within 3 months of becoming a resident. 
• For category C, D and H weapons, you have lodged your new licence application within 7 days of becoming a resident. 

If you want additional categories of weapons endorsed on your licence, you will need to fulfil the weapons safety course requirements for the relevant categories.

Your interstate licence will be mutually recognised and you can maintain possession of your firearms until a decision is made on your application, provided your licence remains current and you have lodged an application for a new licence within the above time frames.

Moving from overseas

If you are moving from overseas, you need to complete a new licence application and provide all relevant information and documentation. 

Along with your new application, you will also be required to produce: 

• A copy of your overseas weapons licence
• Proof of registration of any firearms that you intend to register in Queensland
• A copy of your permanent resident visa; or
• A copy of your temporary work/study visa. (Note: if you have a temporary work/study visa, any licence issued to you will only be for the duration of your visa).
• A completed and signed Statutory Declaration declaring that:

• you have never been convicted with any offence in any country you have resided in outside Australia
• you have not been charged with any offence that is waiting legal action
• you are not aware of any investigation into your affairs which has the potential to lead to such charges.
• You are not aware of any mental reason or physical disability that would prevent you from obtaining and/or holding a firearms licence

If you need to declare any offences or medical history, please attach the relevant details to your Statutory Declaration.

It is recommended you look at Types of Weapons Licence, and Genuine Reasons to make sure there is a Qld Weapons Act Licence right for you. 

You may also be interested in Importing weapons and ammunition.

Moving away from Queensland 

If you are moving overseas or interstate permanently, you are no longer eligible to hold a Queensland Weapons Act licence and will need to surrender your licence and lawfully dispose of your firearms. If you wish to apply for a licence in another state of Australia, you will need to contact the relevant firearms registry of that state or territory.