July 29, 2025
Police have audited 4160 licensed firearms owners across Queensland during the past six months of Operation Whiskey Firestorm.
Most firearm owners were storing their weapons correctly but police still found more than a hundred who were not.
“There were still almost 110 owners who did not meet the legislative requirements, which is more than 100 potential opportunities for weapons to be stolen and misused,” Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said.
“In the past six months, we’ve seen cases of guns being improperly stored under beds and in cupboards, and this is leaving them susceptible to theft.”
Det Supt Marchesini said stolen firearms were often linked to major and organised crime.
“Improper storage is a serious safety risk, and it is our priority to ensure that our licensed firearm owners continue to have the education and support to meet their legal obligations,’’ he said.
“Under Queensland law, firearms must be stored in a locked, approved safe or cabinet that meets specific security standards, with ammunition being stored separately.”
The National Firearm Amnesty allows individuals to surrender unregistered firearms without fear of prosecution.
Since January there have been 370 firearms surrendered across Queensland as part of the amnesty.
Unregistered and unwanted firearms can be surrendered by appointment to a police station or a participating licenced dealer.
- External link: Weapons Licensing
