Weapons and firearms offences are treated with the utmost seriousness in Western Australia. The Firearms Act 2024 (WA) and Criminal Code (WA) impose strict controls on who may possess, use, or supply firearms, parts, and ammunition — and the penalties can be severe, even where no violence occurs.
At Perrella Legal, we defend clients facing all types of firearm-related allegations, from unlicensed possession to serious manufacturing or supply offences. We provide strategic, discreet, and expert representation in the Magistrates, District, and Supreme Courts across WA.
Common Firearm Offences in WA
The Firearms Act 2024 (WA) sets out a wide range of offences, grouped broadly as follows:
- Possession Offences
- Use Offences
- Supply and Acquisition Offences
- Ammunition and Components
- Prohibited Accessories
- Serial Number & Modification Offences
- Manufacture, Repair & Destruction
- Firearm Technology (3D Printing & Digital Designs)
Possession Offences
It is an offence to possess or control a firearm or major firearm part without a valid licence or permit.
- Unlawful possession – up to 5 years’ imprisonment or a $60,000 fine.
- Handgun or prohibited firearm – up to 7 years.
- Multiple firearms (3 or more) – up to 10 years.
- Multiple prohibited firearms – up to 14 years.
- Possession with prohibited drugs or large cash sums – up to 14 years.
Use Offences
Using a firearm without authority is a serious offence, regardless of intent.
- Unauthorised use – up to 7 years.
- Unauthorised use of handgun/prohibited firearm – up to 10 years.
Supply and Acquisition Offences
Supplying, selling, or giving a firearm to an unauthorised person — or acquiring one from them — attracts heavy penalties.
- Unauthorised supply or acquisition – up to 5 years (or 7 years if a handgun or prohibited firearm).
- Supplying or acquiring 3 or more firearms – up to 14 years.
- Supplying to or acquiring from an unauthorised person – up to 5 years.
Ammunition and Components
You must hold the correct licence or authority to possess, sell, or manufacture ammunition or its components.
- Unauthorised possession – up to 3 years.
- Prohibited ammunition or components – up to 5 years.
- Supplying or acquiring without authority – same penalties apply.
Prohibited Accessories
Certain firearm accessories — including silencers, high-capacity magazines, and laser sights — are restricted.
- Possession or supply without licence – up to 5 years.
- Using a firearm fitted with a prohibited accessory – up to 10 years, or 14 years if a handgun/prohibited firearm.
Serial Number & Modification Offences
- Altering or defacing serial numbers – up to 7 years.
- Possessing a firearm with an altered serial number – up to 10 years.
- Making prohibited alterations (e.g. calibre, barrel, trigger) – up to 14 years.
Manufacture, Repair & Destruction
Manufacturing, repairing, or destroying a firearm without proper authority is strictly prohibited.
- Unauthorised manufacture – up to 14 years.
- Unauthorised repair or destruction – up to 10 years.
Firearm Technology (3D Printing & Digital Designs)
It is now an offence to possess, create, or share 3D printing files or digital models that can be used to make firearms or major parts.
- Possession, creation, or dissemination of firearm technology – up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Firearms and Weapons Offences Under the Criminal Code (WA)
The Criminal Code (WA) adds further offences where weapons or firearms are used during other criminal acts — such as assaults, robberies, or aggravated burglaries. These can attract mandatory imprisonment, especially for armed home invasions or violent crimes.
The Criminal Code also contains offences where a person is in possession of drugs and firearms or in possession of cash and firearms or having ready access to weapons.
Possible Defences and Mitigating Factors
Depending on the circumstances, you may have a defence or lawful excuse, such as:
- Lack of knowledge that a firearm was in your possession;
- Holding a valid licence or authority at the relevant time;
- Possessing the item for a lawful purpose (e.g. employment or sporting use);
- Police procedural errors — unlawful search, seizure, or warrant;
- Temporary possession without intent to use unlawfully.
Early advice can make a significant difference to whether charges are withdrawn, reduced, or result in conviction.
How Perrella Legal Can Help
At Perrella Legal, we have extensive experience defending clients charged under the Firearms Act 2024 (WA) and the Criminal Code (WA).
We can:
- Advise you immediately after police contact or search;
- Assess whether the search or seizure was lawful;
- Negotiate with prosecutors for charge withdrawal or reduction;
- Prepare and present strong sentencing submissions; and
- Represent you at all court levels throughout Western Australia.
Whether your case involves a simple possession issue or a serious firearm manufacturing allegation, we approach every matter with professionalism, precision, and confidentiality.
Contact Perrella Legal today for a confidential consultation with an experienced firearms and weapons lawyer in Perth.
