Do I need to be a club member to own a firearm in Victoria?

In most cases, yes — if you’re applying for a firearms licence in Victoria for sport or target shooting, you will need to be a member of an approved shooting club. Club membership is one of the primary ways to demonstrate a “genuine reason” to possess a firearm, which is a legal requirement under the Firearms Act 1996 (VIC).

But it depends on why you’re applying for a firearms licence. Let’s break it down.

Shooting for Sport or Target Practice

If you’re applying for a licence to participate in target shooting, then club membership isn’t just encouraged — it’s required. You’ll need to:

• Join an approved Victorian shooting club that aligns with your chosen firearm category (rifle, pistol, shotgun, etc.)
• Submit a club endorsement as part of your firearms licence application
• Maintain ongoing membership to retain your licence for this genuine reason

For example, if you plan to participate in pistol competitions, clubs like the Geelong Pistol Club or Yarra Pistol Club can provide the training, supervision, and formal endorsement you’ll need to complete your application.

What About Hunting?

If your genuine reason is hunting or pest control, club membership is not legally required — but it can still be extremely beneficial. Many hunters in Victoria are members of clubs such as Field & Game Australia or local shooting ranges because:

• Clubs provide access to safety training and licensing support
• They often organise hunting education courses, duck ID tests, and group hunting trips
• Membership offers community, liability insurance, and often land access

In regions like Gippsland, the Wimmera, or the Otways, where feral animal management is a common concern, club membership also builds your credibility and access to local resources.

Club Membership Requirements by Licence Type

Licence Type: Category A/B (Rifle/Shotgun)

Is Club Membership Required?

• Yes, if your genuine reason is target shooting
• No, if your genuine reason is hunting

Notes:

• Club membership is mandatory for target shooters
• Hunters do not need to join a club but may benefit from doing so

Licence Type: Category H (Pistol)

Is Club Membership Required?

• Yes, always

Notes:

• You must maintain active membership in an approved pistol club
• Without it, your licence will not remain valid

Licence Type: Collectors Licence

Is Club Membership Required?

• No, but you must show genuine collector interest

Notes:

• Involvement in historical or collector clubs can support your application

Licence Type: Occupational or Primary Producer Licence

Is Club Membership Required?

• No

Notes:

• You must demonstrate a clear work-related need for the firearm
• Club membership is not necessary, but may still offer support and resources

Why Club Membership is Valuable — Even When It’s Not Mandatory

Even if you’re not strictly required to be a member, joining a club helps with:

• Completing the firearms safety course
• Getting access to approved ranges to meet minimum usage requirements
• Staying up to date with firearms laws and compliance
• Networking with other shooters, especially in rural Victoria where resources can be limited

In towns like Bendigo, Warrnambool, and Shepparton, clubs often act as the local hub for everything from pest control workshops to youth education programs. The Bendigo Pistol Club, for example, regularly supports newcomers with hands-on training and licence advice.

Key Takeaways

• Yes — club membership is required for most sporting or target shooting licences in Victoria.
• No — it’s not legally required for hunting, but it is strongly encouraged and offers clear benefits.
• Staying active in your club helps maintain your licence, skills, and access to the sport.
  

If you’re not sure which discipline suits you best, clubs like the Melbourne Gun Club or Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club welcome beginners and offer introductory sessions.

Ready to get started? Explore all shooting clubs in Victoria and find a club that supports your interests and licence pathway.

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