Noise Disturbance

Friends of Sydney Harbour want the harbour to be enjoyed by everyone. FOSH supports the responsible control and governance of vessels to provide a safe and enjoyable harbour for all ..... not just those on board. Party boat noise disturbance complaint

Over the last year local communities have reported a reduction in the impact of amplified noise of some of the larger open deck dance party vessels. This is specifically due to these particular vessels staying 'under voyage', remaining out of 'community use bays' and moving in a more central Sydney Harbour 'lane'. This is a positive step and demonstrates how Commercial Operators, NSW Authorities and Local Communities can work together for both commercial and community collaboration. However there is still more that can be done.

The harbour has always been a public space, and like any public space, say a park or a beach it comes with responsibilities to obey the law, and the consideration of others.

If you have personally suffered significant amplified noise disturbance from vessels and you want to be heard, it is vitally important that you register the noise disturbance with NSW Liquor and Gaming at the link below.

​FoSH has been advised by authorities that the number of concerned individuals is what will bring change. Therefore FOSH encourages members of the public to contact us to report any excessive noise on the harbour so we can take these concerns to where change can happen. Use the contact form on this website.

NSW Liquor & Gaming is the current authority which manages noise disturbance from licensed venues, including vessels, in NSW.

Primary Contacts for Noise Complaints:

• NSW Liquor & Gaming https://eforms.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/forms/22734

• For immediate response to Noise Disturbances contact the NSW Police Marine Area Command on (02) 93207499

Additional Avenues for Noise Complaints:

• The Roads and Maritime Information Line on 131 236 (Monday - Friday 8.30 am - 5 pm. Weekends 8.30 am - 4.30 pm) https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/operations/roads-and-waterways/environment-and-heritage/environmental-compliance/noise-from-vessels#:~:text=Report%20a%20noise%20complaint&text=Complaints%20relating%20to%20'entertainment%20noise,via%20Complaints%20%2D%20Liquor%20%26%20Gaming%20NSW