The national firearms amnesty is aimed at reducing the number of unregistered firearms in the community.

During the amnesty, unregistered firearms and other paraphernalia including ammunition, silencers or other prohibited weapons are able to be surrendered.

Acting Commander Jo Foley said Northern Territory Police has waived the registration fee for people wanting to legally register amnesty-related firearms.

“Territorians who are caught with an unregistered firearm outside the amnesty risk a fine of up to $60,000 or imprisonment for two years, and a criminal record,” she said.

The Federal Government estimated there are more than 250,000 illegal guns in Australia.

“This is an opportunity for people to present the firearms to authorities, no questions asked and with no penalty.”

A/Commander Foley said an example of an illegal firearm might be a family heirloom.

“If you’re worried about the consequences of it being in your possession, we urge you to take up this opportunity.”

For more information – including drop off points – visit the National Firearms Amnesty website.