Unwanted noise or noise pollution is not just a nuisance, it can impact your health and well-being. The biggest sources of outdoor noise pollution are traffic, planes, trains, and construction.
Understanding noise levels from different sources
Source: EPA Victoria. We measure noise in decibels. This tells us how loud noise is.
The effect of noise on your health
Noise can disturb your sleep. It can also contribute to heart problems and may impact your concentration. More information about noise pollution’s health effects is available from enHealth Australia.
What you can do about noise
- Report noise from industrial or commercial properties to EPA, or call EPA’s pollution hotline on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC). We’re here 24 hours.
- To keep out noise from traffic, planes and construction, close windows and plan activities in quiet areas, if you can.
- Spend time away from noise, where possible.
Find out more
- EPA's role in managing noise
- The health effects of environmental noise
- Read about more ways to reduce the impact noise can have on people.