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Is pepper spray illegal in Australia?
Partly. Pepper spray is restricted in Australia. Banned in most states; NT ran a public trial from Sep 2025.
Per state/territory. VIC: prohibited weapon under Control of Weapons Act 1990, self-defence not a ground for exemption (Attorney-General reply to petition 674, 2 Mar 2026). NSW: prohibited weapon, Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 s7 (permit only). WA: controlled weapon, lawful excuse. NT: 12-month public OC spray trial from 1 Sep 2025 (NT Govt). Not nationwide -> amber.
Source: State weapons laws, 2026
Banned (11)Restricted (9)Allowed
- Australia is one of 11 countries where pepper spray is banned, and 9 more restrict it.
- In Oceania: banned in 0 of 6 countries.
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Other countries that ban pepper spray
Malta
Luxembourg
Belgium
Netherlands
Norway
Denmark
Ireland
Singapore
Vietnam
United Kingdom
CanadaAll 11 on the map ›What else is banned in Australia
Pit bullsAnti-personnel landminesRaw milkNicotine pouchesAzodicarbonamide (the yoga mat chemical)AsbestosJaywalkingSocial media for kidsExotic petsWhale meatCluster munitionsEverything for Australia ›
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