ESCs are briefcases or suitcases designed to deter theft by discharging an electric current to protect valuables, such as cash, jewellery and sensitive documents.
Previously, specific ESC models were approved for lawful possession under certain circumstances in Western Australia. Other models not on the approved list were already classified as a prohibited weapon.
Following a review of the exemption allowing certain ESCs to be lawfully possessed, it has now been determined that the possession of any ESC is no longer lawful.
All ESCs, including those previously approved, will be classified as prohibited weapons from 30 November 2026.
Members of the public who possess an ESC are encouraged to surrender the device to a police station before the changes take effect.
For further information about prohibited weapons or the surrender process, visit the WA Police Force website or contact Licensing Services on 1300 171 011.
Quotes attributed to Superintendent Mark Gilbert, Licensing Enforcement Division:
"The WA Police Force is providing advance notice of the reclassification of previously approved Electric Shock Cases to prohibited weapons before the new regulations take effect.
"This is to ensure that anyone who currently possesses an Electric Shock Case has sufficient time to understand their obligations and make arrangements to surrender the device.
"Consultation with security industry stakeholders has indicated that these devices are not currently in use locally and, accordingly, we expect the number of devices in the community to be low.
"We encourage people to consider whether any of these devices may be in their possession, including checking items in storage, and to act as soon as possible to ensure compliance with the amended weapons laws."
