Are Compound Bows Legal In Australia?

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Are you an Australian resident looking to make a purchase of a compound bow, but not sure whether it is legal to do so? I’m here to help. I’ve spent some time researching the various laws to find out for good. While this is not legal advice, here is what you need to know.

So, are compound bows legal in Australia? Compound bows are legal to purchase, own and use in Australia. You do not require a permit unless hunting for protected animals. However, misuse or endangerment caused by a compound bow could result in criminal charges. It is essential that usage is confined to safe and approved places, with full permission from the landowner.

Phew.

That compound bow you are considering and looking at – well you can own it, legally, if you wanted.

But, there are certainly some things you will want to know and be aware of to ensure you always stay on the right side of the law.

So, let us take a closer look at them.

Can You Hunt With A Compound Bow In Australia?

You do not currently need a license to hunt for animals on private property or on land where you have the permission of the landowner. So long as they are not native wildlife and legally protected – such as is the case for Kangaroos, for instance.

Therefore, feral animals such as foxes and rabbits, deer, feral goats, and pigs are all open to be hunted along as certain conditions are met.

You should, however, always check your own state or territory laws if you do intend on hunting.

For instance, the Game Management Authority (GMA) in Victoria, and the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) in NSW are such examples.

Where, when, and how.

These are all things that can affect the legality of hunting.

And you do have obligations to hunt humanely too – just consider that.

And while feral animals are typically fair game, you will need a permit or approved documentation if you were looking to hunt deer or other native wildlife in public areas and in certain states.

For instance, Victoria and New South Wales are two examples where laws are in place to protect such wildlife.

For the most part, native animals including the likes of Kangaroos and Koalas are firmly off-limits to most individuals when it comes to hunting.

And if you do want to hunt on government land and reserves, you will need to sign documentation and obtain the permits to do so.

Other Things To Consider With A Compound Bow In Australia

While there are no licensing requirements on owning compound bows and related equipment, it is how you use it that can influence whether you remain inside the legalities of the law.

First and foremost, you should always use your compound bow in a confined, and safe area.

If you own the land, great. Otherwise, you will need the permission of the landowner.

Just consider, while it is not against the law to own and use a compound bow, you can be liable to criminal charges if, through the use of the bow, you cause injury or damage to another individual or their property.

Of course, this applies to any item – not just a compound bow. The same could be said for a golf club if it were to be used in the capacity of a weapon.

Finally

Compound bows are legal to buy, own, and even use in all states of Australia.

Of course, there are limits and a number of limitations, stipulations and conditions here.

Particularly when it comes to hunting.

At the same time, you need to be mindful of other people too.

While a compound bow may not seem hostile or dangerous to you, for other people not used them, they can be quite alarming.

So much so that if anyone feels threatened, afraid or concerned by you and your bow, then you could be breaking the law.

Even if it was as harmless as walking down the street with your bow.

So, just bear that in mind.

Be responsible, mindful.

And do check your local state laws.

It’s essential that you are aware of what is legal and what is not, precisely where you are and how you intend to use your bow.

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