The Victorian government is reviewing how live music precincts and outdoor event noise work.
How loud is too loud, and who gets to decide?
It’s a question that’s plagued venues, artists and residents for years, especially as Melbourne’s live music scene has grown and more people have moved into areas once dominated by nightlife. Now the Victorian government wants your thoughts on how to strike that balance.
Environment minister Steve Dimopoulos announced today (31 October) that two major reviews will look at modernising noise rules for live music and outdoor events. The Victorian government is reviewing how live music precincts and outdoor event noise work across the state with changes aimed at cutting bureaucratic barriers and supporting artists while respecting community expectations.
The two major live music reviews
- Consultation opens 31 October at engage.vic.gov.au
- First review focuses on making precinct setup easier for councils
- Second review examines noise control rules for outdoor events in precincts
- Music industry, land managers, event attendees and local residents can all have their say
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
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First, the establishment of live music precincts
The EPA will review the designated Live Music Precincts requirements, which recognise live music as a priority activity in specific areas. Live music precincts are basically areas where gigs are recognised as a priority, making it simpler to host shows without jumping through a million hoops. The current system makes councils work pretty hard to designate these precincts, and this review wants to make that whole process less of a headache.
The precinct review will look at how councils can more easily set up these zones throughout their areas, whether that’s inner Melbourne, the outer suburbs or regional towns. Once they’re established, these precincts give venues more planning support and protection. The idea is that if an area is already known for live music, it’s easier for venues to operate there without constant battles over noise complaints.
Second, the rules surrounding outdoor events
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The government will also review existing noise control rules within these designated precincts to figure out how outdoor music events should be managed. Right now, outdoor entertainment events and venues have to stick to noise limits set by the EPA. Venues can operate during standard hours, but need permits for extended operations or if they want to run more than six concerts a year. This review will look at whether these rules still make sense and how to balance opportunities for artists with what communities can handle.
The noise review covers everything from massive festivals to pub gigs with outdoor stages. Victoria has built a reputation as an outdoor entertainment destination, and these regulations play a key role in keeping that going while making sure residents aren’t dealing with excessive noise.
Anyone with an interest in how these systems work can jump into the consultation, from venue operators to people living near entertainment areas. Both reviews are part of the government’s push to support jobs and tourism in the state’s creative industries while keeping Victoria’s reputation as a live music destination.
For more information, head here.
