In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, the carrying of a kirpan, which is a ceremonial dagger that holds religious significance for Sikhs, is generally prohibited under weapons laws. However, there are exceptions provided for religious reasons.

Section 11C of the Firearms Act 1996 (NSW) states that it is an offense to possess or use a prohibited weapon without a lawful excuse. A kirpan would typically fall under the category of prohibited weapons, as it is a bladed item.

However, the law does make an exemption for people carrying a kirpan for genuine religious reasons. Sikhs are allowed to carry a kirpan as long as it is worn in a secure and sheathed manner, and the blade is relatively small and not easily accessible.

The specific regulations and conditions for carrying a kirpan may vary, so it’s advisable to check with local authorities or legal experts for precise information regarding kirpan possession in NSW to ensure compliance with the law.

A law in Queensland, Australia, that prohibited Sikh students from wearing a kirpan, a religious item in Sikhism, on school premises has been overturned by the state’s highest court. The court deemed the law “unconstitutional.” This decision followed a legal challenge by Kamaljit Kaur Athwal, who asserted that the ban amounted to discrimination against the kirpan, which is one of the five religious symbols that Sikhs are required to carry at all times as part of their faith, as reported by 9news.com.

Sikhs are obligated to include the kirpan as a component of their religious attire, as outlined in their code of conduct, and it is one of the five religious symbols they are expected to have with them at all times as part of their faith.

The Queensland Supreme Court’s ruling on Thursday determined that “the ban is unconstitutional under the Racial Discrimination Act (RDA),” according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.