The Northern Territory Government has introduced a 12-month trial, which began on 1 September 2025, allowing eligible members of the public to legally purchase, carry, and use OC spray (pepper spray) for self-defence.
Here is what you need to know.
Purchase OC Spray
To participate in the trial, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Provide valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s licence, passport, proof-of-age card)
- Complete a Buyer Declaration confirming:
- No relevant criminal history
- No active police or court orders
- No domestic violence or mental health orders
- Visitors to the NT can also purchase OC spray if they meet these requirements.
Prohibited individuals
- Those convicted of serious offences (with restrictions for 10 years post-sentence)
- Persons subject to domestic violence or restraining orders
- Registered reportable offenders
Where and how to buy
- OC spray is available in person only from Declared OC Spray Firearms Dealers in the NT.
- Each canister must be no more than 45 g/ml.
- You may carry up to 2 cans in public.
- Keep your signed Buyer Declaration—if requested by police, you must produce it within 1 business day.
Rules for carrying and use
- OC spray must be concealed from public view unless disposing or transporting for disposal.
- Not permitted inside licensed venues (bars, pubs).
- Use is restricted to reasonable self-defence and misuse is an offence under the Weapons Control Act 2001.
Safety and misuse guidelines
- Report stolen OC spray to NT Police (call 131 444).
- Misuse attracts penalties under the Weapons Control Act.
- Exposure effects: temporary eye and respiratory irritation lasting 10–45 minutes.
- Store securely and prevent unauthorised access.
- Do not give or transfer cans to others.
- Dispose of empty canisters in household garbage or surrender them at police stations or dealer outlets.
Use against animals
OC spray may be used defensively against aggressive animals if justified and reasonable.
Community Feedback
The NT Government is collecting feedback through the “Have Your Say” survey to assess the trial’s impact and community views.
For full details, visit Northern Territory Police, Firearms & Weapons OC Spray Trial.