Knife Laws in Victoria: Separating Myth from Reality.

When it comes to knives in Victoria, there’s a lot of confusion out there. You’ve probably heard things like:“Knives are illegal here.” “You can’t own or carry a knife at all.”

The truth is, knives are legal in Victoria—when carried responsibly and for the right reasons. Let’s break down the law and clear up the myths.

Are Knives Illegal in Victoria? No—Here’s the Truth

Knives are not banned in Victoria. The law distinguishes between two main categories:

• Controlled weapons: Everyday knives such as folding pocket knives, multitools, or kitchen knives. These are legal if you have a lawful reason to carry them.

• Prohibited weapons: Items like flick knives (switchblades), ballistic knives, butterfly knives, and (from September 2025) machetes. These are not legal for general use and require special permits.

  
  

What Is a Lawful Reason to Carry a Knife?

Under Victorian law, you must have a lawful excuse to carry a knife in public. This includes:

• Work (trades, construction, farming)

• Recreation (camping, fishing, hiking)

• Cultural or religious purposes

• Safely transporting the knife to and from the above activities

Important: Carrying a knife for self-defence is not considered a lawful excuse.

What’s Changing in 2025?

• From 1 September 2025, machetes will be fully banned for sale and possession, with a disposal amnesty in place until November.

• Police have expanded powers to conduct random searches in designated areas to reduce knife-related violence.

These changes focus on removing weapons linked to crime—not stopping everyday Australians from using knives for practical purposes.

Penalties for Getting It Wrong

• Carrying a knife without a lawful excuse can lead to fines and even imprisonment.

• Owning or selling prohibited knives (like flick knives) without an exemption is a criminal offence.

  
  

Tips for Responsible Knife Carry

Tip	Why It Matters
Carry for a clear, legitimate purpose	e.g., fishing, work, camping
Avoid prohibited knives	No flick knives, butterfly knives, or machetes
Transport safely	Store knives in a bag when not in use
Know your state laws	Rules vary across Australia

The Bottom Line

Knives have been essential tools for generations—for work, adventure, and everyday life. The law isn’t about banning knives completely; it’s about ensuring they’re carried for the right reasons and used responsibly.

So next time someone says, “Knives are illegal in Victoria,” you can set the record straight: Knives are legal—when carried with knowledge and common sense.