Noise Laws Are Eroding Canberra’s Nightlife

Limited decibel levels, noise complaints, and restrictions are chipping away Canberra’s nightlife scene. As residential developments for Civic Centre arise and noise laws become stricter, nightlife venues and large-scale festivals can easily find themselves in breach. 

When Canberra’s National Multicultural Festival returned after a three-year hiatus, people were ecstatic – but not CBD residents. The event attracted 350,000 festival-goers and good vibes, but also 12 noise complaints. 

Under the current laws, businesses and events are restricted to 65 decibels, equivalent to someone yelling across the street. Beyond giving the red light to late-night venues, the noise restrictions led to the closure of nightlife spots. 

Places like the central Transit Bar have closed down amid disputes and complaints regarding sound levels. 

MusicACT’s Daniel Ballantyne told ABC that Canberra’s noise restrictions are “way behind a lot of jurisdictions.” He pointed out that venues and events could be at risk if they violate the noise limits, as complaints could shut them down. 

“Under the current regulations you’re not incentivised to open and operate as a late-night venue.”

Last year, the ACT government released a draft plan allowing Canberra to turn the volume up. The proposal introduced the idea of an entertainment precinct in Civic, where live music venues wouldn’t fall foul of noise regulations.