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Machete ban

Learn about changes to owning, using and selling machetes in Victoria.

There is currently an interim ban in place on the sale of machetes across Victoria. You cannot sell a machete in or into Victoria, both in store and online. From 1 September, new laws will ban the possession, use and sale of machetes in Victoria.

A machete is a large broad-bladed cutting knife. Examples include but are not limited to the images below.

You cannot sell a machete in or into Victoria

There is currently an interim ban in place on the sale of machetes across Victoria. You cannot sell a machete in or into Victoria, both in store and online. There are no exemptions while the interim ban is in place.

Retailers cannot stock machetes with an intent to sell them. Retailers should store excess stock in a safe location. You can dispose of the stock during the machete amnesty that starts on 1 September 2025.

The interim ban was made under Australian Consumer Law. It started at 12 midday on Wednesday 28 May 2025.

During the interim ban, significant penalties apply. More information is available on the Consumer Affairs website.

If you see a business selling machetes, report it to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV). You can call CAV on 1300 55 81 81 or make an online report.

From 1 September 2025, Victorians cannot own, use or sell a machete

New laws classifying machetes as a prohibited weapon will start on 1 September 2025.

You will not be able to own, use or sell a machete in Victoria under these new laws. Significant penalties will apply.

There may be exemptions for limited, legitimate uses e.g. agriculture. Government is consulting with industry and the community on exemptions.

Find out more about prohibited weapons.

Machete disposal

The Victorian Machete Amnesty will run from 1 September 2025 to 30 November 2025. During this time, you will be able to dispose of a machete safely and without committing a crime.

Secure machete disposal bins will be installed at select police stations across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

More information on the Machete Amnesty will be available soon.

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