When a licensed firearm owner passes away, their firearms cannot simply be handed over or kept by family members. In NSW, the law requires that all firearms be accounted for and transferred lawfully. To make this process easier for beneficiaries, the NSW Firearms Registry has introduced a dedicated Deceased Estate transfer process.
If You Wish to Keep an Inherited Firearm
Beneficiaries can keep inherited firearms, provided they follow the correct legal steps:
- You will need to hold the correct firearms licence for the category of firearm you wish to keep.
- If you do not already hold a licence, you will need to apply for one before taking possession.
- If you already hold the correct category licence, you will need to complete the relevant Deceased Estate Firearm Ownership Transfer form.
This form acts as a Permit to Acquire (PTA) — a legal requirement before you can take ownership of any firearm.
Where to find the forms
The NSW Police website provides downloadable forms:
- Deceased Estate – Permit to Acquire Handguns for Firearm Ownership Transfers (PDF)
- Deceased Estate – Permit to Acquire Longarms for Firearm Ownership Transfers (PDF)
Further detail is also provided in the NSW Police Deceased Estates – Disposal of Firearms Fact Sheet.
Why This is Important for SSAA NSW Members
For SSAA NSW members, it’s important to be aware of these requirements:
- Respecting the wishes of loved ones – ensuring firearms are lawfully passed on.
- Avoiding accidental breaches of the Firearms Act.
- Keeping firearms in safe hands – maintaining community confidence and supporting responsible firearms ownership.
By understanding the deceased estate process, members can ensure firearms remain part of their sporting, hunting, or collecting traditions — while complying fully with NSW law.
