The third runway at Melbourne Airport will increase community exposure to aircraft noise. The effects of this will be most significant close to the airport, where the volume and frequency of low altitude overflights could impact amenity and health.
Commonwealth approval of the third runway project includes the requirement to develop a Noise Amelioration Plan and Program.
The Noise Amelioration Program will complement controls that have been in place since 1992 to minimise conflict between the community and the airport’s growing 24/7 operation. State and local government planning frameworks have required that new buildings in noise planning overlays be constructed to meet Australian Standard 2021:2015 (Acoustics – Aircraft Noise Intrusion – Building Siting and Construction). However, some homes and public buildings in the areas of significant impact were built prior to or outside AS2021:2015 applicability and may therefore need treatment to help mitigate the effects of noise.
The Program will be designed to mitigate the adverse impacts of aircraft noise for residents and sensitive public buildings in the Hume and Brimbank communities closest to the airport. Priority will be given to structures where sleep, learning, communication and annoyance outcomes can be significantly improved.
The Noise Amelioration Plan and Program will not include any property acquisition.
The Noise Amelioration Plan will be developed through 2025/6 through a process of research and benchmarking, consultation and project definition. Melbourne Airport will seek Ministerial approval in September 2026.
If you have any questions about the Noise Amelioration Plan and Program, please email NAPP@melair.com.au
Key dates
Work begins to define the Noise Amelioration Plan
Consultation begins to develop details of the plan
The plan is finalised and submitted to the Minister for approval
The program for delivering the plan commences
Resources
Community information sessions
Thanks for talking about noise amelioration with us in 2025. We’re busy writing the draft Plan now – please keep an eye out for more opportunities to engage with us in 2026.
We held a webinar on Tuesday 25 November. You can view the recording of this session online here.
The webinar covers:
What “amelioration” means in the context of aircraft noise
How eligibility will be determined and when we’ll know who’s eligible
Project objectives and compliance with Australian Standard AS2021:2015
The process we’re going through to develop the Plan, opportunities for community input and project timelines
How the rollout will work and what attenuation treatments can be expected
How and when you can provide feedback on the draft Plan
Contact Us
Have a question about the project which isn't answered elsewhere or would you like to provide comment or feedback? Send us an enquiry using the form on this page.