The national gun amnesty which had its operations disrupted during COVID lockdowns are easing, allowing ACT police to again open its Firearms Registry in Mitchell.
While the amnesty continued through the lockdown, access to the registry was limited during the COVID lockdown and in some situations, policing officers were attending residences to pick up the unwanted weapons.
No booking is necessary to surrender a firearm during opening hours but police advise that should anyone be unable to transport a firearm to the registry, it can be contacted for assistance on (02) 5126 9076.
ACT police have also advised that the same amnesty conditions for unwanted or unregistered firearms also exists in nearby regional NSW areas and the ACT is willing to accept those weapons as well, or take them to their local NSW police station.
Since the amnesty began in July, more than 440 firearms have been surrendered in the ACT.
A number of the unique items surrendered include a flame thrower, very historic firearms, replica automatic weapons and a significant quantity of ammunition. A number of gel-blaster type firearms have also been handed in.
ACT Policing's gun amnesty social media post
How do I go about surrendering a weapon?
Police have requested that anyone who is transporting a firearm should make sure the gun is unloaded and the bolt removed.
It should be placed into a firearms bag or case or wrapped securely in a blanket or towel. It must be placed securely in the boot of your vehicle.
When you arrive at the registry, keep the firearm wrapped or inside the firearms bag or case before presenting it to staff.
Any transported ammunition must be kept in a locked container separate from the firearms.
If transporting a firearm for surrender, drive directly to the registry. Don't make any side trips where you will be required to leave your car and the firearm unattended.
