Only an adult can apply for a firearms licence in Tasmania however the Act provides that young people aged 12 years and older can obtain a minor’s permit to allow them to receive instruction in the safe use of a firearm (under supervision).
People under the age of 18 who intend to use or possess a firearm need to apply for a minor’s permit. The firearm must be used under the supervision of a holder of a firearm licence or person approved to supervise minors in the use of firearms.
Young people aged 12-13 years may apply for a permit that allows them to use a firearm on an approved range under supervision. A person aged 14-17 years may apply for a permit that allows them to use a firearm in the field and on a firearms range.
Before any minor can shoot in the field, they must complete the Course in Firearms Safety.
It is also a requirement of a minor’s permit for in-field shooting that the young person must be supervised by a full firearms licence holder, who has held their licence continuously for a period of at least one year.