Why Everyone Is Talking About WA Gun Laws (And How It Affects Used Prices)

If you’ve been hanging around the range or scrolling through firearms classifieds lately, you’ve probably heard a lot of noise about Western Australia. The WA Firearms Act 2024 is more than just a legislative update; it is a fundamental shift in how one of Australia’s largest states handles gun ownership. For those of us in the rest of the country: whether you're in QLD, NSW, or Victoria: these changes are creating a massive ripple effect in the used market.

As the 2026 transition periods approach, we are seeing a unique "market shift." Western Australian shooters are being forced to make tough decisions about their collections. For the savvy buyer, this means high-quality guns for sale in Australia are appearing at prices we haven’t seen in years. But before you go hunting for a bargain, you need to understand exactly what’s happening on the ground in the West.

The "Big Cap": Five for Fun, Ten for Work

The headline of the new WA legislation is the strict cap on the number of firearms an individual can own. For the average recreational shooter or hunter, that number is now capped at five. For primary producers (farmers) and professional shooters, the limit is ten.

In a state with a deep history of collecting and diverse shooting disciplines, this cap is a significant hurdle. Many WA shooters currently own dozens of firearms, ranging from heirloom rifles to specialized competition setups. Under the new rules, these owners are being forced to cull their collections to meet the new limits.

This has led to a surge of listings on platforms like Gunbuy. Owners aren't just selling "junk"; they are offloading high-end, well-maintained equipment because they simply aren't allowed to keep it anymore. If you are looking for rifles, specifically in categories that are suddenly "over quota" for WA residents, now is the time to be looking.

The Ban on Rapid Release Action (RRA) Guns

Another major component of the 2024 Act is the ban on Rapid Release Action (RRA) firearms. These rifles, which became popular as a fast-cycling alternative to traditional bolt-actions, are now strictly prohibited in Western Australia.

While the WA government implemented a buyback scheme to compensate owners, many shooters feel the government's valuation doesn't reflect the true market value or the investment they’ve put into their gear. As a result, many WA owners are looking to sell these firearms to buyers in other states where they remain legal.

For shooters in states like Queensland or Victoria, this is an opportunity to pick up specialized hardware that is being phased out in the West. However, transparency is key. When browsing firearms classifieds, always ensure you are communicating clearly with the seller about the firearm's history and ensuring it meets your own state's specific registry requirements.

The WA Market Shift: Why Prices Are Moving

Economics 101 tells us that when supply goes up and demand (locally) goes down, prices drop. That is exactly what we are seeing with rifles in Western Australia.

The state government’s pressure on owners to "downsize" before the 2026 deadlines has created a buyer's market. WA owners are often motivated to sell quickly to ensure they are compliant with the new laws. This creates a "gold rush" for interstate buyers who have the room in their safe and the license categories to take on new acquisitions.

We are seeing a particular increase in:

• High-quality bolt-action rifles: Many hunters are having to choose their "top five," meaning many excellent backup rifles are hitting the market.
• Precision optics: Often sold with the rifle to simplify the exit process.
• Target and Competition gear: As enthusiasts consolidate their hobbies to fit the new caps.

Buying Interstate: It’s Easier Than You Think

A common misconception among newer shooters is that buying a gun from another state is a logistical nightmare. In reality, the process is straightforward as long as you follow the rules and use licensed dealers.

If you find a great deal on a rifle in WA while browsing from New South Wales or Queensland, here is the standard process:

1. Agree on the Sale: Negotiate the price with the seller on Gunbuy.
2. Locate Your Local Dealer: Find a licensed firearms dealer in your area who is willing to receive the transfer. You can find a list of dealers here.
3. The WA Side: The seller takes the firearm to their local WA dealer. They will need your dealer’s license details.
4. Dealer-to-Dealer Shipping: The WA dealer ships the firearm directly to your local dealer. You cannot have it shipped to your house.
5. PTA and Pickup: You apply for your Permit to Acquire (PTA) in your home state. Once approved, you visit your local dealer, pay their transfer fee, and pick up your new firearm.

While shipping and dealer fees might add $100–$200 to the total cost, the savings found on the WA used market often far outweigh these expenses.

Understanding the 2026 Transition

The 2024 Act isn't a "flip the switch" event. There is a transition period leading into 2026. This means the market isn't going to flood and then disappear overnight. We expect a steady stream of guns for sale in Australia coming out of the West for the next 18 months.

However, the best gear usually goes first. Collectors and serious shooters are already scouting for the premium items that WA owners are forced to let go. If you are a member of shooting clubs in the eastern states, you’ve likely already heard stories of guys picking up mint-condition setups for a fraction of their retail price.

Why We Prioritize Compliance

At Gunbuy, we are the "watchdogs" of the marketplace. While we provide the platform for these transactions to happen, we emphasize that legal adherence is non-negotiable. The new WA laws are strict, and the penalties for non-compliance are severe.

• Verify Everything: Whether you are the buyer or the seller, always verify licenses.
• Use the Price Checker: If a deal from WA seems too good to be true, use our price checker to see how it compares to the national average.
• Stay Informed: Laws change. Keep an eye on our news section for updates on how state regulations affect your ability to buy and sell.

Tips for WA Sellers

If you are a WA shooter currently looking to downsize your collection to meet the new caps, Gunbuy is your best tool for reaching a national audience. By listing your firearms here, you aren't limited to the local WA market, which is currently oversaturated.

To get the best price for your gear:

1. Take High-Quality Photos: Show the bore, the action, and any wear. Transparency builds trust.
2. Mention the "Interstate Friendly" Status: Let buyers know you are happy to drop the gun at a dealer for interstate shipping.
3. Be Realistic: The market is shifting. Look at what similar rifles are selling for and price accordingly to ensure a quick sale before the 2026 deadlines.

The Bottom Line

The WA Firearms Act 2024 is a significant moment in Australian firearms history. While it presents many challenges for our friends in the West, it has also opened up a unique window for shooters across the country to acquire quality used firearms.

Whether you are looking for a shotgun for clay target shooting or a specialized rifle for long-range work, the current market shift is something you can't afford to ignore. Stay safe, stay legal, and keep an eye on those firearms classifieds. The right piece for your collection might just be waiting for you in a gun safe in Perth.

Browse our latest listings by state:

• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Tasmania
• Northern Territory
• ACT