We’re here to bring awareness and endorse Airsoft Australia. We believe this can be a fun and safe form of exercise that promotes being outside and team bonding. Sign up today for breaking news and follow the story.
Airsoft in Australia: A Growing Recreational PursuitAirsoft, a dynamic and adrenaline-pumping recreational activity that simulates combat scenarios using replica firearms that fire plastic pellets, has been gaining momentum in Australia in recent years. Despite its rising popularity and dedicated community, Airsoft faces unique challenges and regulations within the country's strict firearm laws. As enthusiasts and advocacy groups work toward legitimizing and expanding the sport, Airsoft's future in Australia remains an intriguing and evolving narrative.
The Queensland Government has opted not to align the state’s regulations with the prevailing national standards, asserting that the current laws are appropriate. Gel blasters, which are toy firearms that discharge gel projectiles, are subject to sales limitations across all states and territories except Queensland. These toy guns have progressively become a favoured choice among […]
Read MoreIn many ways, airsoft is similar to paintball. Air guns – often called airsoft markers or BB guns – are used to shoot little plastic or biodegradable balls to tag opponents in either indoor or outdoor arenas. There are a variety of different types, but most use pressurised gas or battery-powered electric motors to run. […]
Read MoreWest Australians in possession of a gel blaster after July 3 could face three years behind bars under a ban imposed amid concerns the toy guns look too much like real firearms. Police Minister Paul Papalia warned a “tragedy [was] just waiting to happen” because the similarities between gel blasters and real guns meant police […]
Read MoreAirsoft is essentially a sporting activity using replica firearms in which the ammunition is propelled using gas, electric or spring loaded mechanisms. The gaming side of Airsoft is Military Simulation in which you eliminate your opponents with direct hits. The ammunition used are small spherical plastic or non-metallic pellets.
Originally starting in Japan during the early 1970’s as “soft air guns" was designed to meet the needs of shooting enthusiasts whilst still conforming to Japan’s gun control laws. Airsoft as primarily created for target shooting but their plastic pellets can also be shot at humans without causing injury.
Airsoft guns spread to the UK during the late 1980s and early 1990s with a company called LS. The guns were sold in pieces and had to be assembled before they were capable of firing pellets. Airsoft closely emulates real gun functionality and appeals to players interested in causal war-games. Since then, airsoft guns have been adapted for pure recreational purposes, and the sport is enjoyed by all ages.
Airsoft replicas are produced globally, with the majority being manufactured in Asia. Many law enforcement agencies and military units within the United States now use Airsoft for force-on-force training drills. Airsoft weapons are currently illegal in Australia.
The main reason that airsoft is illegal is because of the definition of firearms. Each State in Australia has their own firearms laws and these laws must meet the NFA (National Firearms Agreement), which was brought in post Port Arthur.
For example, in Western Australia, the definition means that it is considered a firearm. Now that doesn’t make it illegal, yet still falls under a category definition. Such as a category A firearm. Unfortunately part of the definition for categories has an appearance component.
This means, if the firearm has a ‘design, function or appearance’ of a category D firearm, it is considered to be a category D firearm.
Category D are restricted/banned firearms, one such sub category are military firearms etc. Since most airsoft guns replicate the look of military weapons, this means they get categorised as a Category D firearm.
What that means is that a toy in essence, used in a game, gets classified as a firearm due to a very broad firearm definition. Now that it’s classed a firearm it is tested against the definitions for each category. Based on its appearance it meets the criteria of being a self loading centrefire rifle designed or adapted for military use.
Airsoft in Australia is only in it’s early stages of being recognised as a valid sport. Airsoft Sydney hopes to make an impact in the community and help further Airsoft to become Legal within all Australian States.
Airsoft offers participants an unparalleled level of realism and strategy. Players engage in scenarios that mirror real-life military missions, such as hostage rescues, objective-based gameplay, and tactical maneuvers. The use of accurate replicas, often modeled after famous firearms, adds to the immersive experience. Unlike paintball, where paint-filled projectiles burst upon impact, Airsoft pellets, commonly referred to as BBs, provide a less messy but equally satisfying feedback. The combination of strategy, physical activity, and authenticity contributes to the sport's allure.
While Airsoft has flourished in many parts of the world, its growth in Australia has been tempered by strict firearm regulations. The country's stringent laws, designed to ensure public safety, categorize Airsoft replicas as firearms, subjecting them to the same regulations as actual firearms. This classification prohibits the ownership, sale, and use of Airsoft replicas without the appropriate licenses. As a result, many Airsoft enthusiasts are forced to either play overseas or engage in clandestine games, risking legal consequences.
Advocacy and Progress:
Despite the challenges, a dedicated community of Airsoft enthusiasts and advocacy groups are actively pushing for the sport's recognition and regulation within the Australian legal framework. These efforts aim to distinguish Airsoft replicas from actual firearms, allowing for a controlled and safe environment for enthusiasts to enjoy their passion. Advocates often emphasize the sport's positive impact on fostering teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie among players.
The global Airsoft community has served as a source of inspiration and collaboration for Australian enthusiasts. Players and organizations from countries with established Airsoft cultures have shared their experiences and insights, guiding Australian advocates in navigating legal challenges and building a case for regulation. The international exchange of knowledge has led to innovative ideas and strategies for promoting Airsoft in Australia.
While efforts to legalize and regulate the sport have gained traction, the journey toward widespread recognition continues. The collaboration between passionate players, advocacy groups, and policymakers offers hope for a future where Airsoft enthusiasts can enjoy their hobby within a legal and secure framework. The ongoing dialogue surrounding Airsoft's potential benefits, both as a recreational pursuit and as a tool for skills development, is gradually reshaping perceptions and contributing to the evolution of Australia's stance on the sport.
No, Owning and selling Airsoft Guns is currently illegal in Australia. This site is for informational and awareness purposes only. We hope to push the message of a safe and responsible implementation of Airsoft in Australia so that fields can be opened in which we can all enjoy participating in Airsoft matches.
At this stage, there is no legal way to obtain an Airsoft Gun in Australia. Customs will seize these items on arrival from importation, and fines may apply for attempting to import Airsoft Guns.
No, We are an online information service attempting to spread awareness on Airsoft legalisation and advocate a healthy sport Australians can engage in both indoors and outdoors.
You can join our mailing list to stay up to date with all Airsoft legalisation news and events, or head over to the Change.org petition to help in the fight to legalise