Bunnings may be able to copy an ordinary household key if the store has the right blank and equipment.
A key stamped “Do Not Duplicate” may also be physically copyable, although a store may decline to cut it without permission. A genuine restricted key will usually need to be ordered through the authorised locksmith or supplier responsible for that key system.
When can Bunnings copy a key?
Bunnings offers an in-store key-cutting service for common household keys.
Whether a particular key can be copied depends on the key, the blank required and the equipment available. Standard house, garage, letterbox and padlock keys are more likely to be suitable than keys connected to an apartment building, workplace or controlled access system.
If you are unsure, the store can inspect the key and tell you whether it can be cut.
Is a “Do Not Duplicate” key restricted?
A key stamped “Do Not Duplicate” is not necessarily a restricted key. The stamp may appear on an ordinary key that is physically copyable. A restricted key belongs to a controlled key system, where the key blank or profile is usually limited to authorised suppliers and approval may be required before another key is issued.
A store may have the blank and equipment needed to copy the key but still decline the request. Whether you should order another copy can also depend on who owns the key and the rules for the property, workplace or building.
If the key belongs to a rental property, apartment building, workplace, school or managed site, check with the person responsible for the key system before requesting another copy.
For more detail, see can you copy a key that says Do Not Duplicate?.
Why might Bunnings be unable to copy a restricted key?
Restricted keys are part of a controlled key system. Their blanks or profiles are usually available only through particular locksmiths, dealers or suppliers.
The authorised supplier may also need approval before issuing another key. This allows the building or site to keep a record of who requested the key, who approved it and who received it.
Bunnings or a general key-cutting kiosk may therefore be unable to copy the key even when you have the original with you.
For background, see what is a restricted key?.
What should you do if you need another key?
Start by checking the key for a locksmith’s name, key number or other identifying mark. Any paperwork supplied with the key may also identify the responsible locksmith or key system.
If the key belongs to an apartment building, rental property or workplace, contact the person who manages access. Depending on the property, that might be:
- the building or facility manager
- the owners corporation or strata manager
- the property manager or landlord
- the business or site manager
- the locksmith named on the key or paperwork
They can tell you whether approval is required and where the order must be placed.
A restricted key will usually need to be ordered through the locksmith or supplier authorised for that particular system. Not every locksmith will have access to every restricted key profile.
If you cannot identify the original supplier, the Master Locksmiths directory can help you find a locksmith in Australia. Confirm that the locksmith is authorised for your specific key system before visiting.
For the usual process, see how to order a restricted key.