From 1 July 2026, new knife sale regulations in South Australia will come into force as part of the State Government’s knife crime reforms, with direct implications for fishing tackle retailers and associated businesses.
All retailers—both physical and online—will be required to clearly display or provide notices advising that knives cannot be sold to persons under 18 and that identification may be required. These requirements apply across all sales channels, including in-store, online and click-and-collect transactions.
Importantly, most knives with a sharp edge or point will be classified as “prescribed knives” and subject to secure storage requirements. However, in recognition of current industry pressures, a temporary exemption has been granted to fishing tackle stores from these storage requirements, provided the premises primarily sell fishing equipment. This exemption is time-limited and will expire after two years.
While this provides short-term relief, all affected businesses must continue to comply with signage and age-verification requirements and should begin planning for future compliance with storage rules.
AFTA notes the importance of ensuring members are aware of these changes and prepared for implementation. Further guidance and practical compliance support will be provided to members as the implementation date approaches and as additional clarification becomes available.
For more details see: https://www.agd.sa.gov.au/law-and-justice/legislation/knife-crime-laws