Are Knives Illegal in Victoria? The 2025 Guide to Knife Laws, Legal Carry, and Responsible Use

If you’ve spent any time online or talking with people about knife laws in Victoria, you’ve probably heard a lot of mixed information:

“Knives are illegal.”

“You’re not allowed to carry a knife in public.”

“Pocket knives are banned in Victoria.”

Let’s clear that up.

Knives are legal in Victoria — but only when they’re carried responsibly and for the right reasons.

This updated 2025 knife law guide breaks down everything you need to know: what’s legal, what’s not, what’s changing, and how to stay compliant while still enjoying your gear.

Are Knives Legal in Victoria?

Yes. Knives are not banned in Victoria.

Victoria’s laws separate knives into two categories: controlled weapons and prohibited weapons. Understanding the difference is the key to staying within the law.

1. Controlled Weapons (Legal With a Lawful Excuse)

These are everyday knives such as:

• Pocket knives

• Folding knives

• Multitools

• Utility knives

• Kitchen knives

You can legally own these and carry them, as long as you have a lawful excuse.

2. Prohibited Weapons (Illegal Without a Permit)

These high-risk knives require special permission or exemptions:

• Flick knives / switchblades

• Butterfly knives

• Ballistic knives

• Concealed or disguised blades

• Credit-card knives

• And from 1 September 2025, machetes

Carrying or possessing these without a permit is a criminal offence.

What Is a Lawful Excuse to Carry a Knife in Victoria?

To legally carry a knife in public, you must have a genuine, legitimate reason.

Lawful reasons include:

• Work-related use

  (trades, construction, hospitality, farming, landscaping)

• Outdoor recreation

  (camping, fishing, hiking, hunting)

• Cultural or religious purposes

• Transporting the knife securely to/from any of the above activities

  
  

Not a lawful excuse:

Carrying a knife for self-defence

Victoria law is clear: self-defence is not a valid reason to carry any knife.

Victorian Knife Law Changes Coming in 2025

Knife regulations are tightening, particularly around higher-risk blades.

1. Machete Ban — Effective 1 September 2025

Machetes will move into the prohibited weapons category.

Unless you have an exemption, you must dispose of them during the amnesty period ending 30 November 2025.

2. Expanded Police Search Powers

Police will be able to conduct targeted random searches in designated areas to reduce knife-related violence.

These changes don’t impact responsible knife owners—they’re focused on preventing crime.

Penalties for Unlawfully Carrying a Knife in Victoria

Understanding the law is essential, because getting it wrong can lead to serious consequences:

• Carrying a controlled weapon without a lawful excuse:

  
  

  → Heavy fines + up to 1 year imprisonment

• Possessing a prohibited weapon without a permit:

  
  

  → Higher fines + potential jail time

• Having a knife in your car, bag, or glovebox still counts as “carrying” in public.

Responsible Knife Carry: Best Practices (2025)

Tip Why It Matters

Carry for a legitimate purpose

Shows lawful intent

Avoid prohibited knives

Reduces legal risk

Transport knives safely

Keep them sheathed or secured

Keep knives out of immediate reach

Demonstrates responsible carriage

Know your state laws

Rules differ across Australia

Following these guidelines keeps you safe, compliant, and confident.

Why I Sell Knives — And Why Knives Matter

Knives aren’t weapons—they’re tools. Tools that humans have relied on for thousands of years.

I sell knives because I believe in:

• Quality craftsmanship

• Everyday functionality

• Practicality and preparedness

• Durable, reliable EDC gear

• Tools that truly serve their purpose

Everything I stock is chosen for real-world use, not hype.

What Can You Use a Knife For?

A good knife is useful every single day. You can use it for:

• Cutting rope, packaging, or materials at work

• Outdoor tasks: fishing, camping, hiking, hunting

• Food prep at home or on the go

• Everyday utility tasks

• DIY projects, repairs, and quick fixes

• Adventure, travel, and emergency readiness

A knife isn’t about danger—it’s about capability.

Ready to Upgrade Your Everyday Carry?

If you’re looking for:

• High-quality EDC knives

• Reliable outdoor tools

• Everyday carry essentials

• Blades trusted for work, adventure, and daily life

You’ll find gear in my store designed for real use, real durability, and real life.

Because owning a knife isn’t about fear — it’s about being prepared. And the right knife is a tool you’ll use more often than you think.

Raff