VIC officially bans machetes – what you need to know and who’s affected

What’s happening: Victoria’s machete ban explained
So yeah — this one’s huge.
As of 1 September 2025, owning, buying, carrying, or even selling a machete in Victoria is officially illegal, unless you fall under a specific exemption. The rule came through the updated Control of Weapons Act, and there’s a lot of confusion floating around.
Here’s what you need to know:
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Ban effective date: 1 September 2025
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Amnesty period: 1 Sept – 30 Nov 2025 (hand them in, no penalty)
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Penalties after that: Up to 2 years’ jail or fines over $47,000 AUD
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Exemptions: Certain agricultural, cultural, or occupational uses are allowed, but you may have to apply for approval from Victoria Police.
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Definition: The ban covers any “large, broad-bladed cutting knife” — which means not just movie-style jungle machetes, but possibly even heavy bush knives or cane cutters.
Vic Government – Machete Ban Details
Why it matters
This isn’t just about weapons — it affects bushworkers, hunters, tradies, landscapers, and even collectors.
Public safety side:
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Police data shows a spike in machete-related violence, including youth gang incidents.
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Some brutal public fights (like the Broadmeadows mall brawl) pushed the government to act fast.
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Supporters say this will make it harder for gangs to access dangerous blades.
Civil liberties & overreach:
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The definition is vague, which means even practical tools could be banned.
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There’s fear of discretion abuse — imagine getting stopped for a farm blade in your ute.
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The exemption process is clunky — people aren’t sure if or how they can legally keep machete-like tools.
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Critics say it’s political theatre, not genuine reform.
Who’s actually affected?
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Hunters & bushcrafters: Many machete-style tools used for clearing brush might be covered.
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Farmers: Cane knives, slashing tools, and certain brush-cutting blades could be classed as “machetes.”
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Tradies & gardeners: Some might get caught in the grey zone — depending on blade size.
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Collectors / re-enactors: May require proof of “legitimate use” or museum-type storage.
If you think your tool might count as a machete, you should:
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Check Vic Gov’s definition.
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Apply for exemption or dispose of it before Nov 30, 2025.
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Keep documentation proving its legitimate purpose.
FAQ Section
Q1: What exactly counts as a machete under this law?
A: The Vic Gov defines it as a “large, broad-bladed cutting knife” designed for slashing or chopping. This could include cane knives, jungle knives, and certain survival blades.
Q2: Can I still use one for farm or gardening work?
A: Yes — but only if it falls under agricultural exemption. You might need to prove legitimate use or apply for official approval.
Q3: What if I own one as a collector’s item?
A: You can keep it if properly stored and registered for display or historical purposes. Otherwise, it must be surrendered during the amnesty.
Q4: What happens if I don’t hand it in by Nov 30?
A: You risk fines up to $47,000 or 2 years’ imprisonment. Police can seize prohibited weapons found during inspections or traffic stops.
Q5: How do I hand one in?
A: Take it (securely wrapped) to a participating police station amnesty bin before Nov 30, 2025 — no questions asked.
Q6: What about knives for camping, fishing, or hunting?
A: Most are still fine — but avoid long, wide blades that resemble machetes. When in doubt, check the official guide or call Victoria Police Weapons Licensing.
What do you all think — is this going to make Victoria safer, or just make life harder for people who actually use machetes for work?
Drop your thoughts in the comments!