New standards for entertainment noise
Protecting live music and entertainment in Canberra's city centre.
The introduction of a City Centre Entertainment Precinct (CCEP) aims to protect live music and entertainment in Canberra’s city centre.
It also aims to support and grow businesses operating in the ACT’s night-time economy and nurture our live music ecosystem.
About the reform
In August 2024, we changed the Environment Protection Regulation 2005 to introduce new fit-for-purpose noise standards for entertainment noise in the CCEP.
We also changed the Territory Plan to allow for:
- a higher concentration of noise emitting entertainment venues away from residential and commercial accommodation, and
- a buffer zone that makes up the rest of the precinct. This still supports entertainment venues but protects residential and commercial accommodation outside the CCEP from the loudest noise.
Why it’s important
The Arts sector, including music, is essential to a thriving night-time economy yet it’s also one of the sectors most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our consultation showed there is strong support for setting appropriate noise standards in the CCEP. This is to make sure entertainment venues and live music are both protected and nurtured.
These changes will support the long-term sustainability of the CCEP and are consistent with our ambition to be Australia’s arts capital.
Next steps
The government will now consider noise standards for the Gungahlin Entertainment Precinct and other future entertainment precincts in Canberra.
Key achievements
We consulted with the community on proposed changes to noise standards for the CCEP. Read the discussion paper and consultation report.
Agencies involved
Contact us
Call
13 22 81