New common-sense paintball laws in effect

New laws now in effect have changed how the sport of paintball is regulated in NSW by reclassifying paintball markers and removing them from firearms legislation administered by the NSW Police Force.

Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson said the new laws are designed to make it easier for the public to play paintball by removing red tape designed for firearms, while maintaining robust public safety controls.

“Paintball markers are not firearms. This change will ensure they are not treated in the same way as firearms as they simply do not pose the same lethal threat,” Mr Anderson said.

“Under the changes to legislation you do not need a permit to play paintball, but you do need a permit to own a paintball marker, operate a paintball business or bring a paintball marker into NSW from overseas.

“We have also lowered the age limit of players to bring NSW into closer alignment with some other Australian and international jurisdictions.

“The use of paintball markers remains restricted to authorised venues, who now need to provide participants with appropriate guidance, supervision and age appropriate protective clothing and equipment before they take part in the games.

“We have listened to feedback from players and the paintball industry in order to get the balance right, and produce a good, common-sense regulation.”

For more information on the new regulations, visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au and search for “paintball”.