Queensland Police Service (QPS) is calling on registered firearm owners across the state to take action to improve the safe storage of their weapons and prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.
Through Operation Whiskey Firestorm, QPS is working closely with regional and rural communities to reinforce the critical message: "Safety First, Secure Always."
The campaign aims to reduce firearm thefts and increase awareness of legal storage obligations under the Weapons Regulation 2016.
Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said the improper storage of firearms such as unlocked safes or shared safe combinations was a growing concern.
"We're seeing a small number of licensed firearm owners failing to meet even the most basic storage requirements, and that is putting the wider community at risk," Detective Superintendent Marchesini said.
"In one case, two firearms were stolen from a closet that was not secured in any way. In another, four weapons were taken from an unlocked shed safe."
Under Section 94 of the Weapons Regulation 2016, firearms must be stored in a rigid, secure container typically made of solid steel and fitted with a sturdy keyed or combination lock. Ammunition must also be stored separately in its own secure container.
QPS routinely conducts audits of licensed firearm owners across Queensland and Detective Superintendent Marchesini says secure storage is essential in preventing weapons from being used in serious and violent crimes such as armed robbery, break-and-enter and car theft.
"This is not about punishing lawful firearm owners. It's about building a culture of responsibility. We want every licensed owner to be part of the solution and we're working with the licensed weapons community to achieve this," Detective Superintendent Marchesini said.
"Operation Whiskey Firestorm is a clear demonstration of QPS's commitment to stopping the unlawful use of firearms and working with the community to keep Queensland safe."
The QPS is encouraging anyone who is aware of unsafe firearm storage to report it via Policelink (131 444) or Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000).
Operation Whiskey Firestorm is a high-impact statewide initiative designed to tackle the critical issues of firearm safety and illicit firearms.
The operation is sending a clear message about the importance of proper firearm storage and the role licenced firearm owners play in ensuring community safety. Operation Whiskey Firestorm is also focusing on a coordinated statewide response to the investigation, prevention and disruption activities involving illicit firearms offences and violent firearm related offending.
This operation comes in response to 2024 statistics which saw 1,055 firearm licenses revoked, and over 3,290 offences involving firearms, including serious offences such as attempted murder, assault, robbery and unlawful entry.
The QPS will be conducting extensive audits, coordinating regional operations, and working with licensed firearm owners to ensure they meet safety and ownership rules and regulations.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
