Possession of Knives
The Summary Offences Act has been recently changed to increase the penalties for persons found possessing a knife without having a reasonable excuse.
A maximum 2-year gaol sentence can be imposed if a person is charged under the Summary Offences Act.
Any reasonable excuse to carry a knife includes
(i) the lawful pursuit of the person’s occupation, education or training,
(ii) the preparation or consumption of food or drink,
(iii) participation in a lawful entertainment, recreation or sport,
(iv) the exhibition of knives for retail or other trade purposes,
(v) an organised exhibition by knive collectors,
(vi) the wearing of an official uniform,
(vii) genuine religious purposes.
It is not a reasonable excuse to have custody of a knife solely for the purpose of self defence .
A knife is also considered to be a prohibited Weapon under the Prohibited Weapons Act. Possession of a Prohibited Weapon carries a maximum penalty of 14 years gaol if the matter is dealt with in the District Court.
