Travelling overseas from Australia with Firearms

Travelling Overseas with a Firearm.

Several people have asked me what the process for travelling overseas with a firearm is and having done so I will explain what is required on both ends.  First off I have only ever travelled to Africa and New Zealand with firearms and both have slightly different systems. On the Australian end it is actually quite simple too.

First off visit the Australian border Force website https://www.border.gov.au/Busi/Impo/Proh/Firearms-and-weapons/travelling-with-firearms

And have a read through the process, you will need to register as a client in the integrated cargo system using the following form.  https://www.border.gov.au/Forms/Documents/b319.pdf

Once you have done that you can apply for a Restricted Goods Export Permit using this application form  http://www.defence.gov.au/DECO/_Master/docs/DEC07-Restricted-Goods-Permit-Application-R-08-01.pdf

It’s all starting to look a bit complicated at this point but it’s not really, just download both forms and the instructions on how to complete them, if you have any issues just do what I did and go to the Borderforce building on Fricker road at Perth International Airport and they will happily help you out. Take along the required 100 points of ID, your firearms licence and the serial numbers of your firearms you do not need to present the firearm at this point. You can complete both applications on the spot.  Note you are no longer required to apply to re-import you firearm as was previously the case.this may however change in future so check with Borderforce when lodging your RGP..

Just be aware that the Restricted goods Export Permit can be approved overnight but is only valid for 28 days, so complete it but do not submit it for approval until about 2 weeks before your departure.  Once that is complete and you have your approval simply present the firearm to the Borderforce customer service counter on the date of your departure prior to checking in for your flight. Your firearm must be in a locked container with the bolt removed (I use a pelican type roller case), ammunition must be packed according to your particular airlines policy. I usually fly Qantas and their guidelines can be found here. http://www.qantas.com.au/dangerousgoods/Qantas-Firearms-and-or-Ammunition-Procedures-Jun-2013.pdf

Be aware you will be required to request clearance to transport ammunition, this is done via email dg@qantas.com.au  and you will receive a response within 24 hours( I have had my requests approved in as little as 15 minutes).

That’s pretty much it on the Australian side, now to get your firearm into South Africa you can go 1 of 2 ways, apply on arrival or get pre approval. I opt for pre approval and use the services of henry@riflepermits.com   he will send you instructions and forms, there is a small fee attached that you pay on arrival. Whichever way you decide to go you will need a letter of invitation from your outfitter or PH detailing the dates etc of your hunting trip. I opt for the pre approval rather than spend what can end up being  a couple of hours in the SAP’s office completing paperwork, especially after a long flight.  Other countries in Africa have similar requirements and  henry@riflepermits.com can provide you with all the correct contacts for each African country.

The procedure for importing a firearm into New Zealand is quite similar and the full details can be found here  http://www.police.govt.nz/advice/firearms-and-safety/visitors-firearms-licence-and-import-permits

I hope that has provided you with some useful and helpful information.