The Noise Abatement Program (NAP) addresses the effects of very high road traffic noise on properties near noisy roads.
Priority for treatment is given if:
- The property is located on an existing State or Federal road and the road is not subject to any upgrading works.
Noise levels are at least 65 decibels during the day or 60 decibels during the night at the property. The daytime noise level is the average noise level between 7am and 10pm and the night-time noise level is the average noise level between 10pm and 7am.
- There has been at least one noise complaint.
The property is classified as a “sensitive receiver” - such as a residence, school, place or worship or health care institution.
Treatment of the property is deemed cost-effective, equitable and practical.
In the case of multi-storey residential buildings, the prioritisation and provision of treatments is generally limited to the two most affected floors.
Noise abatement treatments include noise barriers, noise mounds, quieter pavement surfaces and architectural acoustic treatments. Noise barriers and mounds must be able to reduce noise levels at the most affected property by at least 5dB(A) for funding to be provided. Quieter pavements provide a limited benefit where small reductions in noise levels of 2-4dB(A) are important and should only be considered in conjunction with other treatments such as noise barriers.
NAP treatments are usually provided only when 80 per cent of the affected properties have not had a change in ownership for the previous seven years, and were granted development consent before January 1, 2000. Where these circumstances do not apply, NAP treatments may only be provided where affected properties have been developed in accordance with architectural acoustic principles and it can be shown that there has been a substantial increase in traffic noise levels since these principles were incorporated into the development.
Noise abatement for new developments in locations already exposed to road traffic noise is primarily the responsibility of the relevant developers, local councils when granting development consent, builders, owners and occupants.
Registering for Treatment under the Noise Abatement Program
Residents who believe they are adversely affected by road traffic noise can call the RTA on 131 782. and ask to be registered under the Noise Abatement Program. A registration form and a further explanation of the program will be sent out. The registration form enables residents to provide contact information and details regarding the noise issue and their residence. The RTA will use this information to begin its investigation into whether treatment under the Noise Abatement Program is appropriate.
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