In South Australia, individuals may loan or borrow Category A, B, or H firearms under specific legal conditions. These are governed by the Firearms Act 2015 and Firearms Regulations 2017
Requirements for loaning a firearm
The firearm owner must:
- Ensure the borrower holds a valid firearms licence.
- Confirm the borrower is authorised to possess the specific category of firearm A, B or H.
- Be satisfied the firearm will only be used for the agreed purpose(s).
- Inspect the borrower's licence immediately before transfer.
Types of agreements
- Written Agreement
- Valid for up to 28 days.
- Must specify the purpose(s) of use.
- Both parties must retain a copy.
- Must be shown to police if requested.
- Oral Agreement
An oral agreement is made between the owner and the borrower to say that the borrower will:
- only use the firearm for a purpose or purposes specified in the agreement
- return the firearm to the owner within 10 days.
No written copy required, but still legally binding.
Borrower responsibilities
The borrower must:
- carry a copy of the written agreement when they have possession of the firearm.
- return the firearm within the agreed timeframe.
- not transfer the firearm to anyone else except the owner.
- refuse to accept a firearm if the transfer doesn't meet legal conditions of the Firearms Act 2015
Special notes for Category H firearms
Only 38 calibre or below may be loaned.
Additional restrictions apply for shooting club licence holders. See Regulation 14 of the Firearms Regulations 2017 for an outline of the conditions.
Offences and penalties
Failure to comply with these conditions is an offence. Both the owner and borrower may be held legally responsible.