Issue link: http://ssaansw.uberflip.com/i/763383
Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. 7 The P650 Declaration & the Un-Licensed Person In addition to its use in allowing un-licensed persons the ability to handle fi rearms for training during the licencing process, the P650 declaration is used by shooting organisations across New South Wales to conduct "Try Shooting" events where un-licensed persons may participate under direct, one-on-one supervision. The ability to try the sport before committing to the process of licencing is not only important in attracting new members to the sport but also in promoting its image to those wishing to try it. And people can observe fi rst-hand that shooting is a safe, fun and all-inclusive sport to all those who participate. When completing a P650 declaration, a person must provide acceptable photo identifi cation. Acceptable photo identifi cation is a photo ID issued by a government agency or public authority such as a driver's licence, passport, or security industry licence to name just a few. A business or club ID is not acceptable. Minors (12-17 years inclusive) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who must provide acceptable identifi cation and whose identifi cation details and consent will be recorded. If a person provides insuffi cient ID or answers 'yes' to any of the questions within the Personal History section, they will not be permitted to handle or shoot any fi rearm. The use of any prohibited fi rearm is not permitted under a P650. The P650 declaration form is a legal document. And, completed P650 declarations may be inspected by the NSW Police Firearms Registry at any time. The use of P650 declarations vary from range to range, with most only allowing supervision by an accredited, authorised Range Offi cer or other offi cial at pre-booked times, while some ranges will allow supervision by an authorised, licenced shooter. Then there are those ranges that don't permit its use at all. Whilst some members may become upset if they're unable to bring an un-licensed mate along to their local range to shoot under their supervision, most are unfamiliar with the requirements and responsibilities that go with the ability to supervise. Supervision of an un-licensed person on a P650 declaration is a very serious responsibility, and the supervising person must be authorised by a club or range offi cial. And the Range Offi cer/Branch or club offi cial signing off on the form must be confi dent that the nominated supervisor is competent, won't leave the un-licensed person unattended at any time in possession of fi rearms or ammunition, and is fully aware of their responsibilities. The level of supervision required for un-licensed persons on a P650 declaration is direct, one-on-one supervision. An un-licensed person can under no circumstances be left unattended with fi rearms or ammunition at any time. Furthermore, P650 supervision requires full attention and the ability to render assistance or take control of the fi rearm immediately if required. The supervisor must stand directly beside or slightly behind the participant and never take their eyes off the participant or become distracted while ever they're in possession of a fi rearm. It's of the upmost importance that all participants clearly understand all safety requirements and instructions. Should the authorised supervisor feel a participant presents a danger to themselves or others for any reason then they must advise that person that they will not be able to handle any fi rearms or participate in any shooting activities, and ask that person to leave the range premises immediately. Anyone interested in Try Shooting activities for an un- licensed person should check with their local range before attending. We are all ambassadors of this great sport so remember – safety fi rst, last, and always!