It is illegal to own, use, carry, transport, sell and buy machetes in Victoria, unless you are covered by an exemption or valid approval.
Possession without exemption or valid approval can lead to:
- up to 2 years in prison, or
- a fine of more than $47,000.
What is a machete?
A machete is a large broad-bladed cutting knife.
Machetes can vary in shape and size. Examples include but are not limited to the images below.
Exemptions
Exemptions allow people to keep, use, buy or sell a machete. If you are covered by an exemption, it applies automatically. However, you must comply with all conditions and be able to show proof of eligibility if asked by police.
A full list of machete-related exemptions is listed in the Governor In Council Exemption Orders.
Some existing weapons exemptions will be extended to include machetes. If you are currently covered by a general exemption for swords or daggers – for example, as a recognised museum, collector organisation, historical or cultural reenactment organisation or member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild – that exemption will also cover machetes.
Apply for approval if you’re not covered by an exemption
If you’re not covered by an exemption and there’s a legitimate reason you need to keep or use a machete, you can apply for a Chief Commissioner of Police approval.
In your application you must outline your reasons.
Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
A fee is payable for an approval and if granted, is valid for 3 years.
Selling machetes
You cannot sell a machete in Victoria unless you have official approval from the Chief Commissioner of Police or are covered by an exemption.
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