The Victorian Government will roll out roadside acoustic cameras under a $1.3 million trial aimed at identifying noisy vehicles and reducing hoon driving across Melbourne and other parts of the state.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced the initiative, which will see seven acoustic cameras installed in locations with repeated noise complaints, following consultation with Victoria Police.
The cameras are designed to detect vehicles that exceed regulated noise levels. Once triggered, they capture images and data, including registration plates, which will be used by Environmental Protection Authority Victoria officers to issue testing notices.
Drivers who receive a notice must have their vehicles assessed to ensure compliance with noise limits. If a vehicle is found to exceed those limits, action must be taken to rectify it. Failure to comply can result in fines of $1,221 for individuals and $6,105 for companies.
Data from the EPA shows a sharp rise in complaints. In 2020–21, 5,404 noise reports were recorded. That figure increased to more than 9,100 last year. In 2025, authorities issued nearly 5,000 noisy vehicle testing notices and 1,222 infringement notices.
“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,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“This acoustic camera trial will help in detecting and reducing the number of noisy vehicles in our streets and suburbs helping families feel safer.”
The cameras can be mounted roadside or attached to poles and will be placed in identified hotspots across Victoria. The trial is expected to run over two years, with drivers likely to see the technology in operation later this year.
Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor said the move responds to concerns raised by residents.
“Hoon drivers are causing impact on families across our communities so we are tackling the problem with new acoustic cameras.”
Authorities say the trial will focus on areas where communities have reported persistent issues, with enforcement aimed at bringing vehicles back within legal noise limits rather than immediate penalties.
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