Legalities - and how the authorities classify the Sgian Dubh

[Dale Seago]

You might try joining this forum and searching/asking around:

http://www.australianbladeforums.com/vb4/

[Dranoweb]

You might try joining this forum and searching/asking around:

http://www.australianbladeforums.com/vb4/

Yes I have scoured that site thoroughly, and no information specific to carrying a Sgian Dubh in public.

[Downunder Kilt]

In relation to the importation of a sgian dubh into Australia is the concern is that it is not a dagger i.e. blade is not sharpened on both sides. Daggers are a prohibited import.
In Victoria, knives are classed as a controlled weapon. Many cultural groups have applied for and been given an exemption in relation to carrying of a knife when performing at or attending a cultural event. In relation to individuals, the law is very much the same as that in the UK. I have been advised by the Sergeant of Police in my area, and members of the Vicpol Pipe Band that should I be at a highland event, dressed in highland attire, there would not be a problem. If I was to go to a hotel, even though I was dressed in Highland attire it would be a diffrent matter. It's really a matter of common sense.

I will have a look around and see if I can find the definitive legislation.

[Downunder Kilt]

Here is a link to Victoria police with some info
http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content...ument_id=25574

[Aussie_Don]

Here is a link to Victoria police with some info
http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content...ument_id=25574

Maybe I'm reading it wrong, but to me a Sgian Dubh would fit in the
category of Controlled Weapons -- but that doesn't give a lot of
guidance about the when and where/wear of it.

Though, (again maybe a gray hair thing) my experience with the
Victoria Police is that they're generally fairly reasonable, so I'd
sort of figure that if I stuck to the UK rules (even though this is
Australia and not the UK) I'd be OK. And, yes, I do know enough
that, if queried, I wouldn't say, "But it's legal in the UK."

-Don

[Dranoweb]

Maybe I'm reading it wrong, but to me a Sgian Dubh would fit in the
category of Controlled Weapons -- but that doesn't give a lot of
guidance about the when and where/wear of it.

Though, (again maybe a gray hair thing) my experience with the
Victoria Police is that they're generally fairly reasonable, so I'd
sort of figure that if I stuck to the UK rules (even though this is
Australia and not the UK) I'd be OK. And, yes, I do know enough
that, if queried, I wouldn't say, "But it's legal in the UK."

-Don

After reading the full list - I would be inclined to agree with that interpretation:

"Dagger
A sharp pointed stabbing instrument (other than an oyster knife), ordinarily capable of being concealed on the person and having:
(a) a flat blade with cutting edges (whether serrated or not serrated) along the length of both sides; or
(b) a needle-like blade, the cross section of which is elliptical or has three or more sides. This does not include instruments such as swords or bayonets"

so my current design with one sharp side should be perfectly acceptable.

[Dranoweb]

Ok so I think I have some clarification on this.
they appear to be a "controlled" item not a "prohibited item"

and in regard to "controlled" items, Vicpol have the following to say:

"
Controlled weapons are weapons that can be used for legitimate purposes but require regulation because of the possible danger they pose to the community. This category of weapon includes knives that while not considered prohibited weapons, still are a potential danger to the community.
A person must not possess, carry or use a controlled weapon without lawful excuse. Lawful excuse includes:

a) the pursuit of any lawful employment, duty or activity
b) participation in any lawful sport, recreation or entertainment, and
c) the legitimate collection, display or exhibition of weapon.

Lawful excuse does not include for the purpose of self-defence."

[Aussie_Don]

In relation to the importation of a sgian dubh into Australia is the concern is that it is not a dagger i.e. blade is not sharpened on both sides. Daggers are a prohibited import.
In Victoria, knives are classed as a restricted weapon. Many cultural groups have applied for and been given an exemption in relation to carrying of a knife when performing at or attending a cultural event. In relation to individuals, the law is very much the same as that in the UK. I have been advised by the Sergeant of Police in my area, and members of the Vicpol Pipe Band that should I be at a highland event, dressed in highland attire, there would not be a problem. If I was to go to a hotel, even though I was dressed in Highland attire it would be a diffrent matter. It's really a matter of common sense.

Pretty much in line with my thoughts on the subject --
I'd carry the "dummy" around places where alcohol was being
served, but otherwise not worry too much. I'll be playing at
what amounts to a Ceilidh in September, wearing full PC and kit
with the formal Sgian Dubh (that has a blade) -- not expecting a
problem -- perhaps gray hair and beard help in this regard also.

[QUOTE=Downunder Kilt;1189361
I will have a look around and see if I can find the definitive legislation.[/QUOTE]

I'll wait for that -- it would be good to know exactly what the
score is.

-Don