The Victorian Government has announced a $1.3 million trial on roadside acoustic cameras that can detect and record the registration plates of vehicles that exceed noise limits.
The cameras will be installed in locations impacted by multiple noise complaints, following consultation with Victoria Police.
Acoustic cameras are triggered by noise levels to capture images and data. They will be used by Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) officers to issue vehicle testing notices to ensure vehicles are operating within regulated noise limits.
If testing confirms a vehicle exceeds regulated noise limits, action must be taken to bring the noise level into compliance. Failure to act can result in a $1,221 fine for individuals and a $6,105 fine for companies.
“Melbourne is one of the world’s most liveable cities and we will keep it that way by tackling noise pollution caused by hoon drivers,” said Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulos.
“This acoustic camera trial will help in detecting and reducing the number of noisy vehicles in our streets and suburbs helping families feel safer.”
In 2020-2021, the EPA received 5,404 noise reports; last year that jumped to more than 9,100 with almost 5,000 noisy vehicle testing notices and 1,222 noisy vehicle infringement notices issued in 2025.
Acoustic cameras can be mounted roadside or fixed to poles.
The EPA will trial seven cameras over the next two years in hot spot locations across the state.
The Government says Victorian drivers can expect to see the acoustic noise cameras in operation later this year.
