Anyone in possession of an unregistered firearm or firearm-related item will have the chance to legally dispose, sell or register it without penalty between July 1 and September 30.

The regular penalties for possession of unregistered firearms are fines of up to $280,000, 14 years in jail and a criminal record.

Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector George Radmore said the amnesty was an opportunity for people who may have wanted to hand in firearms but feared the repercussions.

“There may be a number of instances [of guns being] family heirlooms, where people are unaware of how to dispose of them and are fearful of handing them into police as it may result in legal action,” he said.

“The amnesty will provide an opportunity for that to occur without any consequences.

“Police encourage members of the community to take guns to a licensed firearms dealer or police.”

Inspector Radmore said he believed people on rural properties in the area may also have access to firearms.

Deputy Commissioner Regional NSW Field Operations Gary Worboys said gun theft was a major concern for police, particularly in regional areas.

“NSW Police is committed to stopping firearms falling into the hands of criminals,” Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.

“Too many firearms are not stored securely, making them an easy target for thieves to steal multiple firearms during break-and-enters, particularly at rural properties.”

Police are also using the opportunity to remind firearm licence holders of their legal responsibility. Gun owners are encouraged to keep firearms at their primary residence, opposed to locations that are infrequently habited.

Firearms and firearm-related items can be surrendered under the amnesty arrangements at approved drop-off points, which include licensed firearm dealers, mobile stations, and police stations. Firearms should not be loaded when handed in.

Anyone with concerns about handling firearms or safely transporting them should contact the NSW Police Force Firearms Registry at 1800 909 826.

For more information visit www.firearmsamnesty.ag.gov.au.