The large multi-edged blades have images, words or markings suggesting the knives are intended to be used for violence; they have been used in serious crimes in other jurisdictions and are available in NSW from online retailers, according to Police Minister Troy Grant. 

“These knives have the potential to cause significant harm to people if used in criminal activity, and there’s also a huge risk of accidents by those using them as props or toys,” Mr Grant said.

The Weapons Prohibition Amendment (Zombie Knives) Regulation 2019 will come into force on February 28 and people have until then to surrender the knives to police or seek a prohibited weapons permit. 

Anyone caught with a prohibited weapon without a permit faces a mazimum penalty of 14 years in jail. 

Any person in possession of a zombie knife must surrender the knife to police by the end of February by making an appointment with their local police station. 

If a person wishes to make a prohibited weapons permit application, they should make an appointment to surrender the knife to police until the application is determined.  

The list of prohibited weapons in NSW already includes flick, ballistic and star knives as well as knuckle-dusters and tasers. 

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