In Reply to: leatherman knives posted by dutchy on Saturday, 8. September 2007 at 06:59 Bali Time:
importing knives
Importing the following knives is restricted under the Customs
(Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.
To import these knives, the importer will need to obtain the written authorisation of the Minister for Justice and Customs before the goods arrive in Australia.
In order to obtain the Minister's permission, you will first have to obtain permission from you State/Territory police force to possess the
knives.
Daggers or similar devices, being sharp-pointed stabbing
instruments ordinarily capable of concealment on the person (excludes swords or bayonets).
Ballistic knives, being knives that discharge a blade as a projectile
by a spring mechanism or other means.
Flick knives (aka switchblade knives) or similar devices, with a
blade that opens automatically by either gravity or centrifugal force
or by pressure applied to a button, spring or device in or attached to
the handle of the device.
Concealed knives, blades or spikes that are designed to disguise
the presence of the blade etc.
Sheath knives or similar devices, with a sheath which withdraws
into its handle.
Push knives or similar devices, with a handle that allows the
blade to be supported by the palm of the hand so that stabbing
blows or slashes can be inflicted by a punching or pushing action.
Trench knives or similar devices, with a handle that fits over the
knuckles to protect them and increase the effect of a punch or blow.
Throwing blades, throwing knives or throwing axes, made of
any material, designed or modified to be thrown.
Non-metallic or ceramic knives, blades or spikes (excluding
plastic cutlery).
Butterfly knives, also known as ‘balisongs', or other devices.
Penalty: The maximum penalty for importing these goods without
import approval is a fine not exceeding $275,000 or imprisonment
for 10 years, or both.
HOW DO I GET PERMISSION TO IMPORT?
Applications for permission to import should be made on the
Application for permission to import Schedule 2 and 3 weapons
form. This form is available from any Customs office, or on the
Customs website.
Applications should include:
contact details including street address and telephone or email,
as further information might be required to supplement the
application a detailed description of the items being imported, including pictures, trade names, and technical specifications
evidence of the proposed end use - this will include the written
authorisation from the State/Territory police that you are legally
allowed to possess the items in your home state, in the form of
a form B709B.
This form is attainable from State/Territory Firearm Registries - see the Firearms/weapons information contacts fact sheet.
All applications should be forwarded to:
National Manager
Cargo Branch
Australian Customs Service
5 Constitution Avenue
CANBERRA ACT 2601
For information on any Customs matters, contact the Customs
Information and Support Centre on 1300 363 263 or email
information@customs.gov.au or browse the website
www.customs.gov.au