An Australian-first trial of noise camera technology in Wollongong and Bayside councils has finished, with early results providing valuable information about vehicle noise and anti‑social driving.
The trial was undertaken as part of the NSW Government’s work to crack down on car and bike hoons who create unnecessary noise.
Data from the trial revealed several trends:
- Noisy driving peaks at night and on weekends, with these periods accounting for the most recorded events;
- Driver behaviour such as aggressive acceleration was a factor in all noisy events;
- Motorcycles are responsible for around 55% of noise events, despite representing only around 4% of registered vehicles in NSW;
- A small cohort of drivers is responsible for a high proportion of noisy events. Of all events, 55% are caused by the same group of vehicles that pass by the noise cameras at different times and days, and sometimes at more than one noise camera location.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is conducting a detailed analysis of the trial data to help determine the next steps in addressing noisy vehicles and noisy driving behaviour.
Fines were not issued during the trial period. The review was conducted to help determine whether the cameras can be used for enforcement in the future.
“We have heard the community’s concerns about car and motorcycle hoons. This trial and compliance will help to take further action on our roads,” said Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe.
“The Minns Labor Government is continuing its efforts to identify noisy and illegally modified vehicles. Officers conduct random checks in hooning hotspots and assess whether vehicles meet noise standards.”
The EPA has also acted with NSW Police and Transport for NSW to target noisy and illegally modified vehicles with targeted campaigns in areas known to be frequented by offenders.
Officers conduct random inspections of vehicles suspected of being modified and assess their compliance with noise control regulations. Sixteen vehicles were issued with defective vehicle notices during enforcement campaigns late last year in Bulli and Rockdale.
Under existing legislation, on the spot fines can be issued for noisy vehicles with penalties up to $600 for individuals and potential court appearances for repeat offenders. NSW Police, Transport for NSW and local councils also regulate noise pollution from vehicles.
“Hoons who treat our roads like racetracks are not just a nuisance; they’re putting lives at risk,” said Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley.
“The message is simple: if you’re deliberately driving dangerously on our roads, expect police attention.
“NSW Police will continue working with Transport for NSW and the EPA to target this behaviour and hold offenders accountable.”
