How to Join SSPC

Steps to join a pistol club:

In order to apply to become a member of the SSPC, we ask that you come down to the range and shoot with us on 4 separate days. This gives you a chance to better understand how we work and how the club runs, and it also gives our range officers some time to meet and get to know you. Our range officers can give you a basic introduction to handgun safety and use if you have not shot before.

If you do not yet have a handgun license, then each time you shoot with us you will need to complete a NORI (Notice of Receiving Instruction) form. This form asks for your details and is signed by you and the person giving you instruction and is then forwarded to the Victoria Police. Please remember to bring photo ID each time you shoot in order to complete the NORI form.

Each time you shoot with us the range officer will sign your attendance card (available at the range). Please include a photocopy of your attendance card showing 4 attendances when you apply for membership. New membership applications are considered at the committee meeting (held on the 4th Tuesday of each month), and we will contact you once your membership application is processed.

Download a copy of the 'Membership Application Form' from the Resources area

Joining Process

Try it out!

Before applying for membership of the SSPC, we require that you come along to the Springvale range and shoot with us on at least 4 occasions. This allows you to find out a bit more about the club and how we work and it allows us to get to know you a little better.

One of our range officers will be able to introduce you to the basics of handgun safety and shooting. Each time you come and shoot, you will be required to complete a NORI (Notice Of Receiving Instruction) form. The range officer will show you the NORI form and help you complete it. You will require 2 forms of ID, one with photo, (eg Drivers License and Medicare Card). Your shoot will be recorded on your personal participation card, make sure you bring it along next time!.

Join the SSAA

We are a sub-club of the SSAA, as such you must be a member of the SSAA before becoming a member of our club. The SSAA joining forms are available from the front desk at the Springvale range. Remember that your SSAA membership comes with a free monthly magazine and you get a discounted range entry fee!

Handgun Safety Course

You will need to attend (and pass!) a handgun safety course before applying to join. Dates and costs for the handgun safety course are available from the front desk at the Springvale range. Safety courses are held once per month and generally go from 8am until 3pm on a Saturday. After completing the safety course you will be issued with a handgun safety certificate.

Apply For Membership of SSPC

Once you have at least 4 shoots recorded on your personal participation card you will be able to apply for membership. Complete the membership form and include a photocopy of your participation card, safety course certificate and SSAA membership receipt. Applications for membership are reviewed at each committee meeting (4th Tuesday of each month).

If your application is accepted then you will be required to pay the joining fee which covers your membership until the 30th of April. As a member, you can keep shooting using NORI forms (up to 10 times) until your probationary license is issued.

Apply for a Probationary Handgun License

Once you have joined the SSPC, you can apply for your Probationary Handgun License. This license will allow you to shoot and participate in competitions using club handguns. The probationary license duration is at least 6 months. During this time you must participate in at least 6 competitions with our club. Note that it takes at least 1 month for the police to process your probationary licence. While you are waiting for it to arrive you can continue to shoot with us using a NORI form.

Keep participating in Competitions!

Now you have your Probationary License, you can participate in almost all of the competitions and shoots which are held by the SSPC. Some comps require you to have a holster qualification, but you can participate in most without a holster. We also hold fun shoots (bowling pins, metal plates, etc.) These don’t count towards your competition requirements, but are great fun and you get to improve you skill and meet new people.

Apply for a Full Handgun License

After holding a Probationary Handgun License for 6 months and having participated in at least 6 competitions, you can now apply for a Full Handgun License. You full license application needs to be approved by the SSPC at the monthly committee meeting (Just like you initial membership). After you receive you full license you can look at purchasing your own handgun.

Download a copy of the 'SSPC Joining Process' document the Resources area