The Australian Border Force (ABF) has seized dozens of illicit firearms and parts, along with hundreds of gel blasters as part of nationally coordinated enforcement activity targeting the illicit firearms market.
During a national week of action between Sunday 18 October and Sunday 25 October and in its lead-up, the ABF undertook more than 50 related enforcement activities across Australia, including 11 ABF-led warrants, and supported 10 partner agency-led warrants.
ABF-led activity resulted in the seizure of 27 firearms, including privately manufactured firearms, shotguns, air rifles, imitation firearms, 58 suppressors, firearm parts, manufacturing equipment and ammunition, 728 gel blasters and 3.6 million gel rounds, illicit drugs and cash.
During enforcement and disruption activities, the ABF also issued seize and warn notices, while several investigations, including into serious offences, remain ongoing.
The National Illicit Firearms Working Group consists of Federal agencies, including the ABF, and police jurisdictions throughout Australia and New Zealand, established to enhance the strategic and operational response to the threat of illicit firearms.
In the 2025-2026 financial year period, the ABF detected over 3,400 undeclared firearms and firearm parts. This figure has increased by more than 30% when compared to 2024-25 financial year.
Under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956, it is an offence to import firearms, firearm parts, accessories, magazines, ammunition, and replica or imitation firearms without lawful approval. The type of importation requirements depends on the category of firearm, action type, magazine capacity, and any parts or accessories fitted to the firearm.
ABF Superintendent Mel Stewart said the high visibility week of action strengthens the ability of the ABF and law enforcement partners to target criminal activity.
“Through this coordinated operation, the ABF has narrowed in on the importation of illicit firearms and parts, helping to collate critical intelligence to enhance future targeting efforts,” Supt Stewart said.
“These enforcement activities play an important role in preventing those who are trying to evade attention from border and intelligence agencies.
“Staying ahead of emerging threats, the ABF continues to develop and enhance its detection capabilities to identify and stop illicit firearms, parts and components at the border, working closely with partner agencies to identify criminal actors.
“The ABF remain committed to protecting the community from the threat that illicit firearms and their manufacturing present and will continue to take action at all levels where offending takes place.”
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia’s borders is urged to report to Border Watch online. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia’s border and the community.
/Public Release. View in full here.
