How to Get a Firearms Licence in Bundaberg

If you’re new to shooting, or you’ve just moved to Bundaberg and want to get set up properly, the licensing process can feel like a lot. The good news is that it follows a clear set of steps. Here is a plain-English overview of how a Queensland weapons licence works, so you know what to expect before you start.

This guide is general information only, not legal advice. Requirements are set by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Weapons Licensing and can change, so always check police.qld.gov.au for the current rules.

You need a licence before you can own or use a firearm

In Queensland you must hold a valid weapons licence to use a firearm, and you also need a permit to acquire (PTA) before you buy one. The licence lets you possess and use firearms in the categories endorsed on it. The PTA covers the purchase of a single firearm, so you apply each time you want to acquire another.

Step 1: Check you’re eligible

QPS requires applicants to be a fit and proper person, to live in Queensland, and to meet the age requirements for the licence type. You also need a genuine reason for holding a licence, safe and secure storage for your firearms, and an approved safety course. QPS publishes eligibility fact sheets that explain each requirement in detail.

Step 2: Choose your genuine reason

Queensland licences are only issued for a genuine reason, and you have to support it with evidence. Common genuine reasons include sport or target shooting, recreational shooting on rural land, primary production and collecting. The paperwork you provide depends on the reason you nominate, so check the QPS requirements for your situation before you apply.

Step 3: Complete an approved firearms safety course

Before a licence application can proceed, you generally need to complete an approved firearms safety training course for the category of firearm you want. The Statement of Attainment must be recent (within the previous 12 months at the time of application). Local training is available through Bundy Firearms Courses, which we link to from our website.

Step 4: Arrange safe and secure storage

You must be able to store your firearms securely and legally. Storage rules differ by firearm category, and they are changing from 12 March 2027 for the most common categories. Read our guide: Queensland Gun Safe Changes 2027.

Step 5: Apply for your licence

Applications can be made online through QPS or at a police station. There is a legislated 28 day waiting period on new licence applications, so it pays to apply early. Licences are issued for a set term of up to ten years and need to be renewed.

Step 6: Apply for a permit to acquire (PTA)

Once you hold a licence, or have applied for one, you can lodge a PTA application for the firearm you want to buy. PTAs are for one firearm at a time, and there is a 28 day waiting period from the date you lodge. Only licence holders aged 18 or over can apply for a PTA.

Step 7: Choose your firearm with expert advice

With your licence and PTA sorted, it’s time to talk to a licensed dealer. At Rehbeins Guns & Fishing, our team has been advising Bundaberg shooters for more than 40 years. We can talk you through the differences between rifles, shotguns and handguns, what suits your genuine reason, and the ammunition, optics and storage that go with them. Pop into the shop at 35 Targo Street or give us a call on (07) 4151 3194.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a licence just to try shooting? Rules for supervised use vary. Ask your approved club or QPS Weapons Licensing before you handle a firearm.

Can I buy a firearm online and have it delivered to me? No. In Queensland a firearm must be acquired lawfully with a PTA, and the transaction goes through a licensed dealer or other approved process. Speak to QPS or your licensed dealer about the correct process.

How long does the whole process take? Allow for the 28 day waiting periods on both the licence application and the PTA, plus time to complete your safety course and arrange storage.