Pocket Knives: Are They Legal in Australia?
If you want the short answer, then, no. You can now go on your merry way. If you need a little more than a bit of warning that you can’t bring your small weapon around, then keep reading.
It may come to you as a surprise since pocket knives are relatively small. But, you have to bear in mind that their tiny blades are sharp enough to be a necessary tool for work or school. Since this is the case, it is illegal to have a pocket knife in most states.
Do you want to learn more on why are not allowed to carry a pocket knife under Australian laws? Read on to learn more.
Knife Regulations: Federal and State Laws
Federal and State Laws cover different knife regulations. To make things simpler, you only need to focus on the laws present in your state. Your state laws dictate the kinds of knives that you are allowed to own and which ones you can carry around in public.
Generally, carrying knives in public is prohibited. There may be times that you could be exempted from these laws. However, you must have a reasonable excuse and a concrete proof to back your reason. An example of a valid reason is religious practice — for instance, the kirpan carried by Sikhs. And guess what, self-defence is not a lawful reason to bring a knife around.
In the case that you are caught with a knife in public without a valid reason, then you will get a substantial penalty. The amount you need to pay will depend on your state, to give you a rough idea, you may be looking at somewhere between a $AUD 1000 fine and a two-year prison sentence.
The laws we described are similar to the state laws NSW and Victoria follow. However, Western Australia begs to differ. The western area slightly stricter laws with a narrower list of lawful excuses.
What are the Prohibited Weapons?
What kind of knives are prohibited by most states?
1. Concealed Knives
Even the name sounds scary, so you would understand how this knife made it to the prohibited weapons list. If the blade of your knife is stored in its handle, then you may want to leave that bad boy at home. Most states will consider your knife to be a prohibited weapon. You should not bring switchblades, stiletto knife or even smaller folding knives like a clasp knife or a penknife in public.
However, not every state is the same. For instance, Queensland is not as strict, so they let their citizens carry small knives like a Swiss Army knife. However, it should only be for food and other general utility purposes. If you are not sure about your states law, then it is better if you don’t bring small folding knives in public.
2. Fighting Knives
The laws about concealed knives might be blurry, but regulations on fighting knives are much clearer. It is highly illegal for you to carry combat knives or bladed weapons like swords without definite proof of your reasonable excuse.
The Laws About Owning Knives
Technically, owning a knife is different from bringing one with you in public. For example, you are allowed to have knives in your kitchen, and you won’t be arrested for owning them. Some states may even allow you to own prohibited weapons if you get permits for them. Check with your local laws before rushing to buy weapons to follow your dream of becoming Rambo.
Australia’s Knife Laws Vs. the World
Australia is one of the strictest countries when it comes to knife regulations. Think of it this way, the US and UK let their citizens carry small pocket knives for as long as they are less than three inches long while Australia does not offer this kind of exception.
On top of the strict knife laws, Australian police also have higher search powers compared to other police forces. Did you know that the Australian police do not need to have a warrant to search a person? This only applies if they have reason to believe that you have a knife with you.
The Final Say
You may think that the knife regulation laws in Australia are tough, but you should know that it is necessary. Almost a quarter of the homicides and assaults from the last decade is done with a knife. Australia is strict about its regulations with knives so that it can protect its citizens. These laws exist to help protect us ultimately. If you really need a knife with you for whatever reason, you can consult with a lawyer or check with your states law.
