Top Tips for Successfully Applying for a Gun Licence NSW

If you’re planning to apply for a firearms licence in New South Wales, it’s important to get your paperwork, training and genuine reason for your application sorted early. A gun licence NSW application isn’t impossible, it can be delayed if you miss key steps or don’t understand what’s required.

At PAST Outdoors, we help everyday Australians prepare properly through trusted education and real-world training. Below are our top tips to help you avoid common mistakes when applying for your gun licence. 

1. What we recommend before you apply for your Gun Licence in NSW

Before starting your application, we always recommend getting organised and completing your Firearms Safety training first. It shows you’re serious, responsible, and prepared to safely own and use firearms. This is a requirement in order to obtain your licence. You cannot obtain a licence without having completes the safety training with an approved provider. 

2. Firearms training course: complete your training with PAST Outdoors & ARU

Completing a certified firearms training course is mandatory. At PAST Outdoors, our Firearms Safety Training Course is run by the Australian Recreation Union and is designed to help new shooters and responsible firearm owners meet NSW training expectations with confidence. 

At PAST outdoors, we're trusted by outdoor professionals, recreational shooters, and everyday Australians who want to do things the right way. If you want to build safe habits from day one, start with our Firearms Safety Training Course. Explore our step-by-step guide to getting your gun licence in NSW for extra clarity.

The ARU Firearms Safety Course

The ARU Firearms Safety course covers firearm safety fundamentals, correct handling, safe loading and unloading procedures, legal responsibilities, and safe storage requirements. It will focus on practical, real-world knowledge—not just ticking a box—so you feel fully prepared when applying. This training is also a key stepping stone for anyone progressing into recreational shooting or professional use.

For more support, we also offer additional learning options through with outdoor education courses, built for Australians who want to develop real outdoor and safety skills.

3. Understand the eligibility requirements

To apply for a gun licence NSW, you must meet NSW Police requirements, including being a “fit and proper person” and having a valid genuine reason (such as sport shooting, rural use, or collecting).

We recommend gathering your supporting documents early, including photo ID and any evidence that supports your genuine reason. Many applications are delayed simply because applicants rush this stage.

4. Choose the right, genuine reason for applying

Your gun licence application must match your intended use. If you’re applying for recreational shooting, your supporting documentation should reflect that clearly.

This is where joining a recognised organisation can strengthen your application. Memberships can help demonstrate legitimate participation in shooting sports and outdoor recreation.

A great option is Australian Recreation Union membership, which provides support for outdoor enthusiasts and helps reinforce genuine recreational use.

5. Apply for the correct licence category from the start

One of the most common mistakes is misunderstanding gun license classes. NSW licences are issued based on categories (such as A, B, C, D, H), and each has different requirements.

Choosing the wrong category can cause processing issues or force you to reapply. If you’re unsure, it’s worth getting advice before submitting your application.

6. Prepare for safe storage and compliance

In gun licence NSW applications, safe storage is a major focus. NSW requires approved firearm storage, and you may be inspected. Review the Safe Storage requirements with NSW Police. 

It might be worth purchasing and installing your safe before submitting your application. Having safe storage ready shows responsibility and reduces the chance of delays later.

Apply with confidence and do the right thing

Applying for a firearms licence is a serious responsibility in Australia, and doing it properly matters (especially given the light of recent events). At PAST Outdoors, we’re proud to support Australians with professional training, proven advice and real-world experience in outdoor safety and equipment.

Get trained, get prepared and let us help you take the next step with confidence. Join our Firearms Safety Course today to get started. For group bookings, email sales@pastoutdoors.com or phone us on 1800 727 847.