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Safe Shooting Course (Longarm)

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If you are applying for a NSW firearms licence for longarms (rifles or shotguns), the SSAA NSW Safe Shooting Course (Longarm) is your required training. This course teaches you the essentials – theory, handling, safety, and legal responsibilities, in a supportive and professional setting.

What this longarm safety course covers

This version of the safe shooting program is specifically designed for those applying for longarm licences. You will learn:

  • SSAA NSW The major parts and operation of rifles and shotguns.
  • SSAA NSW How to handle, load, unload, and maintain long arms safely.
  • SSAA NSW Ammunition fundamentals and correct usage for longarms.
  • SSAA NSW Safe storage, transport, and legal obligations under NSW law.
  • SSAA NSW Range procedures and field safety practices.
  • SSAA NSW Relevant laws, regulations, and your responsibilities as a longarm licence holder.
  • SSAA NSW Practical handling and assessment to confirm safe firearm control.

This course is approved by the NSW Commissioner of Police and meets the firearms safety training requirements for longarms. Only instructors accredited under SSAA NSW may deliver it.

Longarm Firearm Licence Checklist

The training includes both theory and practical components:

  • Theory session: Course material and assessments delivered by a Safe Shooting Instructor to prepare for the practical session.
  • Practical session: Under instructor supervision you will practice correct firearm handling, aiming, trigger control, and safe operation.
  • Assessment: A multiple-choice theory test first, then a practical demonstration. You must pass theory before doing the practical.

For new shooters, expect 4-6 hours total, though more experienced people might complete the course in less time.

Only approved SSAA NSW Safe Shooting Instructors are permitted to run the course. To qualify, an instructor must:

  • Hold a valid longarm firearms licence for at least 3 years.
  • Be endorsed by their SSAA NSW branch or affiliate.
  • Successfully complete SSAA NSW’s Safe Shooting Instructor workshop.
  • Maintain SSAA NSW membership and comply with policy standards.

Additionally, the course itself cannot be altered. The content, structure, and assessments are fixed, unless approved by both SSAA NSW.

  1. Contact your local SSAA NSW branch or affiliate club to find upcoming longarm safe shooting courses.
  2. Complete required paperwork including the P650 declaration form and show valid photo ID. If you answered “Yes” to section B of the P650, you need prior approval from NSW Firearms Registry before commencing the course.
  3. Attend the theory and practical training on the scheduled day.
  4. On completion, you will receive your Statement of Attainment to use with your licence application.
  5. You must be a financial member of the SSAA NSW.

  6. Pre-course material: Watch this video.

    Read the booklet here:

    Safe Shooting Booklet 

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