New knife laws in NSW – Will the changes reduce stabbings?

The government have introduced a number of new knife laws in NSW. In a bid to reduce knife crime in NSW, the laws mainly focus on preventing young people from carrying the dangerous weapons. The recent stabbing attacks in New South Wales, including incidents in Bondi Junction, Wakeley, and Doonside, have encouraged the government to act now.

Now, a Senior Police Officer of the rank of Assistant Commissioner, or above, can turn on 'wanding powers' to be used in a designated high-risk areas.

Check out our Factsheet on knives.

New knife laws in NSW

The proposed new knife laws in NSW include:

• Giving police the power to "wand" anyone in designated areas for weapons, without needing a warrant or reasonable suspicion. Failure to comply may result in a penalty fine of $5500.