A groundbreaking noise camera trial has launched in Bayside to tackle vehicle noise pollution, with key support from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). UTS experts are helping test the technology, aiming to create a quieter, safer community for residents.
Australia’s first-ever noise camera trial launched today in Bayside Council areas, introducing cutting-edge technology to combat vehicle noise pollution and hoon behaviour. This initiative is led by the NSW Government in collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and other key partners, highlighting the critical role of research and innovation in addressing environmental challenges.
The trial responds to mounting concerns from residents and businesses in Bayside, where excessively noisy vehicles and anti-social driving have disrupted daily life. To target these issues effectively, the camera locations were chosen following extensive input from the community, councils, and technical experts.
The advanced SoundVue Noise Camera System, developed by UK company Intelligent Instruments, has been successfully deployed in cities like London and New York. Equipped with a sophisticated microphone array and dual cameras, the system captures high-quality audio and video to monitor roadside noise levels with precision.
Hooning: anti-social and dangerous behaviour committed when driving a motor vehicle
Preliminary testing of the noise camera technology was completed in the acoustics chamber at UTS Tech Lab, one of Australia’s premier engineering acoustics facilities. By leveraging our expertise in comparable technologies, including industry-standard sound measurement and noise source localisation solutions, we will evaluate the performance of the sound level meter – which detects excessive exhaust noise – and the microphone array/wide-angle camera – which detects the precise location of the noise source. These rigorous, systematically conducted tests will validate the system’s accuracy and reliability, paving the way for its use in addressing vehicle noise pollution effectively in NSW. Associate Professor Ben Halkon, UTS.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is leading the trial in partnership with UTS, Bayside Council, Transport for NSW, and NSW Police. UTS researchers, through their Centre for Audio, Acoustics, and Vibration, are conducting technical evaluations of an additional noise camera in a controlled environment, providing critical insights to ensure the system performs effectively under various conditions.
Unlike traditional enforcement mechanisms, no fines will be issued during the trial period. Instead, data collected will inform a comprehensive review, helping determine whether noise cameras can serve as a regulatory tool in the future. The trial will run until December 2025.
Acoustics Chamber at UTS Tech Lab
“We are delivering on our election commitment, with the Minns Labor Government cracking down on hoons by launching Australia’s first trial of vehicle noise cameras. The impact of ‘hooning’ behaviour on Bayside residents and businesses cannot be underestimated. This trial represents a decisive step in addressing community concerns and improving quality of life for local residents. The camera locations were carefully chosen following extensive consultation with the community, councils, and experts. Feedback from the EPA’s ‘Have Your Say’ platform saw record engagement, demonstrating just how pressing this issue is for our residents. We are committed to finding innovative solutions to make our communities safer and more livable. This trial will help us better understand how noise cameras can curb anti-social behaviour and reckless driving.” Member for Rockdale Steve Kamper.