What is a Genuine Reason?
Under the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW), anyone applying for or holding a NSW firearms licence must have a “genuine reason” for possessing and using a firearm. A genuine reason is the lawful purpose for which you hold your firearms licence and determines the activities you are authorised to undertake.
The recognised genuine reasons for a NSW firearms licence include:
• Sport/Target Shooting
• Recreational Hunting / Vermin Control
• Primary Production
• Vertebrate Pest Animal Control
• Business or Employment
• Rural Occupation
• Animal Welfare
• Firearms Collection
Please note: Personal protection or the protection of another person is not recognised as a genuine reason for possessing or using a firearm in New South Wales. Likewise, protecting property is not a genuine reason, except where it forms part of the genuine reason of Business or Employment (Security Industry).
When Do I Need to Add or Remove a Genuine Reason?
You may need to update your genuine reason if your circumstances change. For example, you may:
• Begin participating in a new shooting discipline;
• Join a hunting club or commence recreational hunting;
• Cease participating in a shooting activity;
• No longer require a particular genuine reason; or
• Wish to add or remove a firearm licence category that requires a different genuine reason.
It is important that your NSW Firearms Licence and your SSAA membership always reflect the same genuine reason(s).
Important: The Order Depends on What You’re Doing
The process for adding a genuine reason is different from the process for removing one.
Following the correct order helps ensure your firearms licence remains compliant and your SSAA membership continues to provide the appropriate support for your licence.
Adding a Genuine Reason
If you are adding a genuine reason that requires support from your SSAA membership, you must update your membership before applying to the NSW Firearms Registry.
Step 1 – Update Your SSAA Membership
Contact the SSAA National Membership Office on (02) 8805 3900 and request that your membership be updated to support your new genuine reason.
Step 2 – Apply to the NSW Firearms Registry
Once your membership has been updated, submit your application through the NSW Firearms Registry Gun Safe Customer Portal, together with any required supporting documentation.
Follow the document below for a detailed walkthrough
Removing a Genuine Reason
If you are removing a genuine reason, you must update your firearms licence before changing your SSAA membership.
Step 1 – Update Your Firearms Licence
Inform the Firearms Registry by emailing firearms@police.nsw.gov.au.
Submit your request through the NSW Firearms Registry Gun Safe Customer Portal.
When the Registry issues you with a replacement firearms licence card, wait until you have received your updated licence before making any changes to your SSAA membership.
Step 2 – Update Your SSAA Membership
Once your updated firearms licence has been issued, contact the SSAA National Membership Office on (02) 8805 3900 to update your SSAA membership so it reflects your current genuine reason(s).
Follow the document below for a detailed walkthrough
Why You Shouldn’t Change Your SSAA Membership Before Notifying the Registry When Removing a “Genuine Reason”
Changing your SSAA NSW membership (e.g. switching from a target shooter to a hunting membership) without updating your licence first can put you at risk of:
- Non-compliance with your licence category
- Invalid attendances or records
- Issues with audits or renewals
- Possible suspension or cancellation of your firearms licence
If the Registry doesn’t show the updated reason, reporting on the new membership type may be invalid.
Stay Compliant and Informed
If you need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the office on 02 7900 1555 or email admin@nsw.ssaa.org.au.
