# Travel >> Transportation >> Light Aircraft

Bringing a Disassembled Air Gun into Australia: Strict Controls Apply

Australia classifies most air guns as firearms — even disassembled. Importation requires prior permits, licensing, and compliance with both Federal and State laws.

Federal Requirements (Customs / Border Force)

Firearm Definition: Any device capable of discharging a projectile by gas/compressed air/spring. Includes parts (barrel, action, receiver).
Import Permit (B709A): Required before shipping. Issued by Australian Border Force (ABF) / Department of Home Affairs. Must show:
- Valid Australian firearms license (state-issued).
- Genuine reason (target shooting club membership, pest control license, collection).
- State police approval for that specific item.
Customs Declaration: Mandatory on arrival (Incoming Passenger Card / cargo manifest). Non-declaration = seizure, prosecution, visa cancellation.

State/Territory Laws (Where You’ll Use/Store It)

Each jurisdiction has its own Firearms Act — categories, storage, licensing:

NSW: Air rifles = Category A (license + permit to acquire). Pistol = Cat H.
VIC: Air rifles = Category A/B. BB/gel blasters = imitation firearms (strict).
QLD: Air rifles = Category A. Gel blasters = Category A (since 2021).
WA: Air rifles = license required. CO2 pistols = restricted.
SA/TAS/NT/ACT: Similar — all require license + registration for most air guns.

Disassembled ≠ Exempt

Parts (barrel, receiver, stock) = firearm parts — same permit required.
Shipping components separately doesn't bypass controls; ABF uses X-ray/intelligence.