Consultation has begun on the Melbourne Airport Noise Sharing Plan, which will explore different ways to use the airport’s three-runway layout to spread noise impacts more evenly – particularly outside peak times and when weather allows.
The plan is being developed by independent consultants Trax and GHD as part of the federal government’s approval conditions for the third runway project (due to open in 2031).
Melbourne Airport third runway executive director Peter Lellyett said community feedback would be crucial in shaping how aircraft noise is managed.
“We know aircraft noise is a key issue for local residents,” he said. “The noise sharing plan will balance operational efficiency with noise sharing – distributing aircraft noise over different areas at different times of the day and night.”
Residents can provide feedback via an online survey or at in-person sessions scheduled across Melbourne before 8 December 2025 – details here.
Preparatory works for the third runway are already underway, including upgrades to Sunbury Rd and controlled blasting trials within the future runway footprint. Main construction is set to begin in 2026.
When complete, the new east–west runway is expected to support more than 37,000 additional jobs by 2046, boost tourism and exports, and increase flight options for Victorian travellers.
