Melbourne Airport has launched community consultation on its noise amelioration plan, designed to reduce the impact of aircraft noise as planning for the airport’s third runway continue.
The new runway is due to open in 2031 and is expected to increase aircraft noise exposure to nearby suburbs, particularly across the Hume and Brimbank communities.
The program is designed to mitigate the impacts of aircraft noise for residents and sensitive public buildings in the Hume and Brimbank communities which sit closest to the airport, including Sunbury, Bulla, and Keilor.
A Melbourne Airport spokesperson told Star Weekly the program would target homes and public buildings which are most likely to be affected.
“Eligibility for residences will be determined according to the conditions of the Minister’s approval…within the ANEF25 contour. We sent more than 1100 letters to homes within this area seeking feedback on how residents would like us to consult with them,” the spokesperson said.
The plan aims to prioritise buildings where noise can affect sleep, learning, communication, and health.
Hundreds of homes, schools, childcare centres and medical facilities are expected to be eligible, though the final figure will not be confirmed until 2026 when updated noise forecasts are released.
“These forecasts will inform the final scope of the Noise Amelioration Plan, which is due to be submitted to the Federal Minister for Infrastructure for approval in late 2026,” the spokesperson said.
Community concerns over the increased noise have grown strong, particularly in Brimbank, where residents argue the airport has underplayed the potential noise impact.
Residents have raised concerns around Melbourne Airport’s noise melioration program being “underhanded and misleading”.
”We have been transparent about the additional aircraft noise some communities will hear and, since 2022 when the draft Major Development Plan for the project went on public exhibition, we have communicated directly with impacted communities,” the spokesperson said.
“We also provide an online noise tool where residents can see the expected impact of the third runway when it opens.”
Consultation runs through to November, with residents invited to complete an online survey, contact the airport directly or attend in-person sessions to be announced in coming weeks.
