Firearms Licence NSW – Expert Insights from AUMARK

When it comes to managing pest animals in New South Wales, the proper use of firearms is both an essential tool and a legal responsibility. Whether you're a rural landholder, property manager, or part of a council pest management team, understanding the requirements of a NSW Firearms Licence is critical.

At AUMARK, we bring years of field experience in humane and efficient pest control, operating under full compliance with NSW firearms laws. In this blog, we break down what you need to know about firearms licences in NSW and how we support landholders and organisations across the state.

What is a Firearms Licence in NSW?

In New South Wales, a firearms licence is a legal requirement for any individual who wants to possess or use a firearm. The NSW Firearms Registry, part of the NSW Police Force, is the authority that issues licences and oversees all regulatory compliance.

To legally use a firearm in NSW, you must:

• Hold a valid firearms licence

• Register each firearm to your name

• Have a genuine reason for firearm use (e.g., pest control, primary production)

• Comply with storage, handling, and transport laws

Firearms Categories Relevant to Pest Control

There are several categories of firearms under the Firearms Act 1996, but for professional pest control and rural use, the most common include:

• Category A – Rimfire rifles (non-semi-automatic), shotguns (non-pump/semi-auto), and air rifles

• Category B – Centrefire rifles (bolt-action, lever-action, etc.)

• Category C – Semi-automatic rimfire rifles and shotguns (restricted to professional pest controllers and primary producers)

• Category D – Semi-automatic centrefire rifles and pump-action shotguns (typically restricted to government and licensed pest control operators)

Each category comes with its own set of requirements, and licence holders must justify their need based on their profession, land use, or business operation.

Who Needs a Firearms Licence?

You'll need a NSW firearms licence if you are:

• A professional pest controller (like AUMARK)

• A farmer or primary producer protecting crops or livestock

• A rural landholder managing invasive animals

• A contractor or ranger working under a government or council pest management program

The AUMARK Advantage: Licensed, Compliant, Experienced

At AUMARK, we handle everything from the legal compliance to the safe, ethical use of firearms in the field. Here's how we help:

✅ Licensed Professionals
We carry licences across multiple firearm categories relevant to vertebrate pest animal control and regularly update our training and compliance.

✅ Regulatory Knowledge
We operate fully in line with NSW Firearms Registry regulations—covering licence use, firearm registration, safe storage, transport, and reporting.

✅ Custom Pest Control Programs
Our shooting programs are designed based on land size, threat level, and wildlife activity. We use the right tools for the job—safely, effectively, and legally.

✅ Peace of Mind for Property Owners
When you hire AUMARK, you're not just getting skilled marksmen—you're partnering with a team that takes careful documentation, risk management, and public safety seriously.