www.theage.com.au . . .

Rethink on right to bear swords
MARK RUSSELL
April 18, 2010

THE Brumby government is reviewing the exemptions that allow collectors' clubs and theatre and religious groups to own banned samurai swords and daggers, as part of its crackdown on knives.

A Department of Justice spokeswoman said conditions for exemptions might be tightened after the review had been completed.

The move follows a Sunday Age report on how Melbourne store Global Gear was encouraging customers to join the Australasian Knife Collectors Club or the Victorian Historical Edged Weapons Guild as a way of beating the weapons ban.

The Australasian Knife Collectors Club, which reportedly has 5000 members, will relinquish its sword exemption after being asked by the department to show cause as to why it should keep it. Its website revealed there had been a marked increase in applications from people wanting only a ''sword licence''.

The Department of Justice spokeswoman said: ''The department is reviewing the general arrangements around the exemptions which may include a range of further requirements for clubs'' such as stricter conditions for storage of the weapons.

The exemptions apply to a wide range of clubs and organisations in Victoria including theatre and opera companies, fencing organisations, any religion whose practice involves swords, highland dancers, the Scout Association, the Masonic Lodge, the Australian National Wushu & Tai Chi Association and the Australian Kendo Renmai Associated Club.

Swords were declared prohibited weapons in 2004. The exemption allows members to bring swords into Victoria, sell or buy swords and possess, use or carry swords for the purpose of studying and collecting swords with a historical or cultural significance.

The government recently launched a crackdown on knife-related violence that includes $1000 on-the-spot fines for carrying illegal knives.

Because of course dancers, theatrical and martial arts groups are at the forefront of all the blade-based muggings in the city. *eyeroll* Way to punish the people who actually treat their blades with respect.

(If they're hoping this will get them votes in an election year, they're sorely mistaken!!)