Can you have a gun in your car in Australia?

Can you have a gun in your car in Australia is one of those questions where the short version is yes, but only under strict conditions and never as a casual accessory on the back seat. Transport rules are all about security, control, and keeping firearms out of unauthorised hands. ssaa+2​

Across the states and territories, the details differ, yet the principles are similar. When you lawfully transport a firearm, it must be unloaded, stored out of sight, and secured in either a locked boot, a fixed metal container, or a sturdy locked case depending on the vehicle and local rules. Ammunition must be stored separately from the firearm, usually in a separate locked receptacle such as a glove box, ammo box or other lockable compartment where an unauthorised person cannot easily grab it. In Queensland, for example, the law says firearms should be locked in the boot if there is one or in a locked metal container fixed to the vehicle, with secure, closed storage and out of sight when that is not possible. Victoria issues similar guidance that stresses unloaded firearms, padded cover or hard cases, and separate storage for ammo. ssaa+1​

What you definitely cannot do is have a gun loaded and accessible in the cabin like a movie cop, or leave it unattended in a way that lets an unlicensed mate or passerby get at it. Police also have inspection powers in several jurisdictions, so a roadside check can quickly turn ugly if transport rules are not followed. Treat car transport as an extension of your safe storage responsibilities, not a break from them. wikipedia+2​