It is illegal to own, use, carry, buy or sell machetes in Victoria.
If a machete has traditional, historical or cultural significance, you may be exempt from the ban if you can prove that:
- the machete has genuine cultural, historical or traditional significance (for example, has been passed down through generations or is used in cultural activities), and
- you are genuinely involved in a recognised cultural, historical or traditional activity (and not using the machete for everyday or general use).
A full list of machete-related exemptions is listed in the Governor In Council Exemption Orders.
What you can do under this exemption
- Keep a machete at home if it holds cultural, historical or traditional significance to you or your family.
- Use or carry a machete during a recognised cultural or traditional activity, linked to a cultural group or community.
Examples of approved cultural use
- A Samoan machete (nifo’oti) used in a traditional dance performance or cultural event in Victoria’s Samoan community.
- Members of Victoria’s Papua New Guinea community using a machete to make traditional costumes or in cultural dance performances.
- Members of Victoria’s Latin American communities displaying decorative or engraved machetes in homes as cultural symbols.
What you cannot do
- Keep a machete that does not have cultural, historical or traditional significance.
- Use it for everyday tasks like gardening, cooking, camping, or general maintenance.
- Take it into a public place, unless it’s for a recognised cultural event.
- Carry it in your car, unless you are travelling to or from a cultural activity.
- Use or carry a machete for self-defence or personal protection.
Evidence you’ll need
You must be able to show that you’re legally allowed to keep a machete for traditional, historical or cultural reasons. Suitable may proof may include:
- membership or affiliation of a community or cultural group
- taking part in a recognised cultural program (e.g. dance event).
Important conditions
- Machetes must be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access.
- If you’re in a public place for a recognised cultural activity – keep the machete out of sight and safely covered when you’re not using it.
- Make sure the machete is not accessible to anyone who does not have an exemption.
Penalties
From 1 September 2025, machetes are banned in Victoria. Keeping a machete without exemption can lead to:
- up to 2 years in prison, or
- a fine of more than $47,000.
Updated