The introduction of 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.   

The Commonwealth approval of the third runway project includes a requirement to develop a Noise Amelioration Plan for approval by the Infrastructure Minister in 2026. The approved Plan will then be delivered through a Noise Amelioration Program until and after the runway opens in 2031.  

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.  

Melbourne Airport’s Noise Amelioration Plan & Program will not include property acquisition.    

The Noise Amelioration Plan will be developed across 2025/6 through a process of research and benchmarking, consultation and project definition. Community members are encouraged to register their interest and engage with the public consultation activities to help guide Melbourne Airport’s production of an effective and practical Plan & Program. 

Melbourne Airport will seek Ministerial approval of the Noise Amelioration Plan & Program in September 2026. 

If you have any questions about the Noise Amelioration Plan & Program, please email [email protected]. 

• Noise Amelioration Plan fact sheet
• National Airports Safeguarding Framework (NASF) Guideline A: Measures for Managing Impacts of Aircraft Noise 
• Australian Standard AS2021:2015 Acoustics – Aircraft noise intrusion – Building siting and construction (available for purchase from Standards Australia) 
• Victoria State Government Department of Transport and Planning – Aircraft Noise Information and Resources