The WA Government’s new Firearms Act 2024 and Regulations took effect on 31 March 2025. While aimed at community safety, the changes raised questions about how they affect Traditional Owners’ native title hunting rights. BNTAC has worked with WA Police to understand the impacts and protect these rights.

A key outcome is that Banjima people now need formal hunting permission before applying for a firearms licence — BNTAC is now an authorised person to provide this under the new laws.

What this means:

• Registered Banjima people (Banjima Common Law Holders) who are applying for a firearms licence have been provided hunting permission by BNTAC in its role as an authorised person.
• Hunting permission is a key requirement, but not the only criteria for getting a firearms licence under the Firearms Act 2024.
• All applicants must also meet WAPOL’s requirements for security, storage, safety training, and the full application process.
• BNTAC also has the authority to grant hunting permission for non-Banjima people. However, guidelines for who can apply, under what conditions, and for how long, are still being developed by the BNTAC Board.
• While BNTAC assists with the hunting permission step, each Banjima person remains responsible for understanding the Firearms Act 2024 and lodging their own licence application.

What you need to do:

✅ Apply or renew your firearms license online at https://firearms.police.wa.gov.au.
✅ Read the Firearms Act 2024 and know your responsibilities.
✅ For questions about the portal, contact WA Police Licensing Services:
📞 1300 171 011 | 📧 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.