Are Slingshots Legal in Australia?

Under the Weapons Act 1990, Queensland classifies weapons into categories (A through M and R). Standard Y-frame slingshots — defined as a forked frame with elastic bands used to propel a projectile — are not listed on any weapons schedule and do not require a licence for purchase, possession, or use.

However, slingshots that incorporate arm braces, trigger mechanisms, or other modifications may fall under Category M (other weapons) and would require a weapons licence. The Weapons Regulation 2016 provides further detail on what modifications trigger reclassification.

Queensland has no age restriction specifically written into the Weapons Act for standard slingshots, though general provisions around misuse and public safety apply. Parents purchasing for minors should exercise appropriate supervision.

The ACT's Prohibited Weapons Act 1996 maintains a schedule of prohibited weapons. Standard Y-frame slingshots are not included on this schedule, meaning they are generally permitted for possession and use. The Act does not require a permit or licence for standard slingshot ownership.

The key provision is that the slingshot must not be used in a manner that threatens public safety or constitutes an offence under other ACT legislation (such as the Crimes Act 1900). Slingshots modified with arm braces or trigger mechanisms could potentially fall under the prohibited weapons schedule and should be checked against the current Act before possession.

Tasmania regulates weapons primarily through the Police Offences Act 1935. Standard slingshots are legal to possess and use in Tasmania and do not fall under the Act's definition of a dangerous weapon or a controlled item when used for lawful purposes.

No specific permit or registration is required for standard Y-frame slingshots. As with other jurisdictions, use in a threatening or dangerous manner may constitute an offence under the Act's general provisions around offensive weapons and public order. Tasmania's approach is among the most permissive in Australia for standard slingshot ownership.

Under the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998, slingshots are listed as prohibited weapons in Schedule 1, Item 2(6). This classification applies to the slingshot frame specifically. Possession, manufacture, or sale of a slingshot frame in NSW requires a Prohibited Weapon General Permit, which must be applied for through the NSW Firearms Registry.

The permit application process involves demonstrating a genuine reason for possession (such as sporting or collection purposes) and is subject to approval by the Commissioner of Police. Applicants must pass background checks and comply with storage requirements.

Importantly, the Schedule 1 listing applies to the frame only. Replacement bands, pouches, targets, clay ammunition, and other accessories are not listed as prohibited weapons or prohibited weapon parts under the Act and can be legally purchased and possessed without restriction in NSW.

The Control of Weapons Act 1990 classifies slingshots as prohibited weapons in Victoria. Possession or use requires either a Governor in Council Exemption Order or approval from the Chief Commissioner of Police. These exemptions are typically granted for specific purposes such as theatrical use, collection, or approved sporting activities.

The exemption process differs from NSW's permit system — it involves a formal application and is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Victoria Police can provide guidance on the current application process and eligibility criteria.

Slingshot accessories — including replacement bands, targets, and ammunition — are not classified as prohibited weapons under the Act and are legal to purchase and possess in Victoria.

South Australia's position on slingshots is less explicitly defined than other states. Under the Summary Offences Act 1953, slingshots may be considered dangerous articles or offensive weapons depending on their design, construction, and intended use. The Act gives police discretion in determining whether a particular item constitutes a controlled weapon.

Due to this ambiguity, we recommend contacting SA Police directly to confirm the current classification of standard Y-frame slingshots before attempting to purchase or possess one. The classification may depend on the specific product and circumstances of possession.

Slingshot accessories are generally not subject to these restrictions in South Australia and can be legally purchased and possessed.

The Weapons Act 1999 classifies slingshots as controlled weapons in Western Australia. A permit is required for lawful possession, and unauthorised possession constitutes an offence. The Act applies specifically to the slingshot frame and mechanism.

Permit applications are processed through WA Police Licensing Services. As with other restricted states, the applicant must demonstrate a legitimate purpose for possession. We recommend contacting WA Police directly for current permit requirements and processing times.

Slingshot accessories including replacement bands, targets, and ammunition are not classified as controlled weapons under the Act and can be legally purchased in Western Australia.

The Northern Territory has the most restrictive slingshot regulations in Australia. Under the Weapons Control Act 2001, both slingshot frames and slingshot bands are classified as controlled items. This is unique among Australian jurisdictions — in all other states, bands are treated as general-purpose elastic products rather than weapons components.

Possession of either frames or bands without the appropriate authorisation constitutes an offence under the Act. Due to the breadth of this restriction, Slingshots Australia does not ship any products — including accessories — to the Northern Territory.