From 31 March 2025, a new law was introduced requiring all new firearm authority applicants and existing firearm authority holders (FAH) to undertake a Firearm Health Assessment (FAHA) in Western Australia under the Firearms Act 2024. This means all new applicants will be required to complete a FAHA as part of their firearms authority application process and existing firearm authority holders will be subject to health examinations incrementally over a 5-year transitional period. The Firearm Health Assessment (FAHA) process includes 3 parts: An online self-assessment questionnaire available through the Firearms Licensing Portal A health assessment completed by an authorised health professional The health assessment outcome, which is submitted to WA Police Force for final determination What is the FAHA evaluating? The purpose of the FAHA is to evaluate a person’s capability to safely possess and use a firearm. To safely possess and use a firearm the individual must have the ability to: Accurately aim at and hit a target. Hold the firearm steady. Pull the trigger. Follow through/recoil control to prevent the firearm from jerking. Comprehend the parameters under which a firearm can be used under the law. Control emotions and impulses such that the firearm is not misused in anger or when under distress. Comprehend the environment where the firearm is being discharged (e.g., physical surroundings including other individuals) and check the safety of the environment before firing. What is included in the FAHA? Mental Functions, Sensory Functions and Pain components of the assessment investigate someone’s understanding of and compliance with the responsibilities and obligations within the firearms legislation and ability to safely handle a firearm. Including but not limited to orientation, intellect, perception, sight, hearing, cognitive function and temperament. Neuromusculoskeletal and Movement-Related Function components investigate someone’s ability to hold a firearm steady with an accurate aim. Including but not limited to mobility and stability of joints, muscle power and endurance, hand and arm use, receiving and producing communication. Areas that are taken into consideration are: Mental health and disability Substance use Physical health (Neurological and Physical) How often is a FAHA required to be completed? Every 5 years for a person under the age of 80 Annually for a person aged 80 years or over It may also be determined that due to an assessment outcome or medical condition, a person may be required to complete a FAHA more regularly. Eg if diagnosed with a condition that may impair their capability in the future, but has no current impact, a FAHA may be required earlier than 5 years. Understanding the Firearm Community In 2024 it was noted by WA Police Force that there are approximately 90,000 FAHs within WA, demonstrating the vast community required to understand and comply with these new laws. People holding a firearm authority come from a wide spectrum of the community with varying purposes for owning and using firearms: Occupation – pest control, security guards, Local Government Agencies rangers, etc. Competition/club – firearm club competitions, national and international sporting events. Hunting – FAHs who assist farmers or rural property owners with vermin/pest control. Trade – those who sell, repair, manufacture or store firearms. Rural property – primary producers, farmers, station owners, etc. Government agencies – Department of Justice, Department of Primary Industry etc. In conjunction with the FAHA requirements, additional new laws have come into place including restricting the number of firearms individuals can own, mandatory offences and orders, compulsory safety training and strict new storage requirements. For more information on the laws and requirements of holding and using a firearm in Western Australia please refer to the WA government website here. At the end of the day all firearm authority holders will need to complete a FAHA so let’s move forward with the transition now, saving you the time and effort of having to do it later. WHA is proud to be authorised to complete Firearm Health Assessments for the Western Australian community. Enquiry today to find out how it works, and when and where you can get an appointment.