We’re thrilled to welcome Bob Alleary to our team as a regular contributor and outspoken advocate for the Airsoft community. Bob brings a deep passion for the sport, years of experience in the field, and a tireless commitment to seeing Airsoft thrive, especially here in Australia, where it faces ongoing challenges and regulatory hurdles.
Who Is Bob Alleary?
Bob isn’t just another hobbyist. He’s a dedicated Airsoft lobbyist, working hard to inform the public and policymakers about the legitimate, positive impact of Airsoft as a recreational activity, a tool for youth engagement, and even as a valuable training platform for professionals. His work bridges the gap between enthusiasts and lawmakers, dispelling common myths about the sport while emphasizing safety, sportsmanship, and community.
With a background in both community organizing and tactical sports, Bob has spent years building networks of players, field operators, and industry advocates. He now channels that energy into writing, policy submissions, and grassroots campaigns to bring Airsoft into the mainstream in Australia.
Expect to hear a lot from Bob in the coming weeks, whether it’s in-depth commentary, updates on legal battles, or spotlights on players and events around the country.
The Current State of Airsoft in Australia 🇦🇺
For those unfamiliar with the situation: Airsoft is a military simulation sport that’s immensely popular around the world. In countries like the UK, USA, Japan, and throughout Europe, it’s a thriving, regulated industry involving organized competitions, team play, and training programs. However, in Australia, Airsoft remains in a legal grey zone, largely banned in most states under existing firearm legislation.
The core issue lies in the way Airsoft replicas are classified. Although Airsoft guns (known as AEGs, GBBs, etc.) are non-lethal and designed for sport, they resemble real firearms, which places them under strict regulation. especially in states like New South Wales and Victoria.
Some key points:
- Queensland is currently the only state with a relatively permissive stance, allowing Airsoft-style gel blasters with appropriate licenses.
- Western Australia and South Australia have shown sporadic interest in revisiting the legislation but have yet to make meaningful changes.
- Campaigns to legalize Airsoft have been ongoing for over a decade, led by groups such as the Australian Airsoft Council and independent activists like Bob himself.
- Despite the setbacks, the community is resilient. Bob’s involvement signals a renewed push toward constructive dialogue and sensible regulation that balances public safety with the right to recreation.
What’s Next?
With Bob on board, we’ll be shining a brighter light on:
- Ongoing legal developments and legislative efforts in various states
- Community stories from passionate Airsoft players across Australia
- Comparative insights on how Airsoft is managed successfully overseas
- Educational pieces on safety, gear, and responsible play
Whether you’re a seasoned player, a curious newcomer, or someone sitting on the sidelines wondering why Australia hasn’t caught up, Bob’s writing will be an invaluable resource.