Introduction
AACG provides traffic noise assessments for development applications and building compliance across Queensland.
Assessments are prepared in accordance with:
- Queensland Development Code MP 4.4 – Buildings in Transport Noise Corridors
- Transport Noise Management Code of Practice
- Applicable planning and council requirements
We define noise exposure categories and compliant construction requirements for building approval and design.
When You Need a Traffic Noise Assessment
A traffic noise assessment is required where:
- The site is within a Transport Noise Corridor (TNC)
- Development approval requires compliance with QDC MP 4.4
- A building is located near a major road or transport corridor
- Council or certifier requires an acoustic report
- Residential or sensitive-use buildings are proposed
This commonly applies to:
- Houses and townhouses
- Multi-residential developments
- Mixed-use projects
QDC MP 4.4 Requirements
Traffic noise in Queensland is governed by QDC MP 4.4.
The code:
- Classifies sites based on external noise levels at the façade
- Defines noise categories (0–4)
- Specifies minimum construction requirements for each category
Compliance is achieved by:
- Identifying the applicable category, and
- Applying the required building construction systems
Noise Categories (QDC MP 4.4)
Buildings are classified into categories based on external noise exposure.
Category 0
- Low noise exposure
- No specific acoustic treatment required
Category 1
- Moderate noise exposure
- Standard construction typically sufficient
Category 2
- Elevated noise exposure
- Enhanced glazing and façade treatments required
Category 3 & 4
- High to very high noise exposure
- Significant acoustic mitigation required
- Upgraded glazing, façade systems, and ventilation
AACG determines the correct category based on site-specific assessment.
External Noise Assessment
Noise categories are determined based on:
- Traffic noise levels at the building façade
- Road type and traffic volume
- Distance to roadway
- Site orientation and shielding
AACG assesses:
- External noise exposure
- Applicable Transport Noise Corridor mapping
- Site-specific conditions
Where required, we undertake:
- Noise measurements
- Traffic noise modelling
Noise Intrusion and Internal Performance
While QDC MP 4.4 is category-based, internal amenity remains a key consideration.
AACG ensures:
- Building design aligns with expected internal performance
- Façade systems achieve required noise reduction
- Openings and glazing are appropriately specified
Noise intrusion is primarily controlled through:
- Glazing systems
- Building envelope integrity
- Ventilation strategy
Construction Requirements for Compliance
Each QDC category defines minimum building requirements.
Glazing Systems
- Primary control element
- Increased thickness or double glazing for higher categories
- Acoustic seals required
External Walls
- Typically compliant in masonry construction
- Lightweight construction requires upgrade
Roof and Ceiling Systems
- Additional insulation and lining for higher categories
Doors and Openings
- Solid core construction
- Sealing required to maintain performance
Ventilation
- Mechanical ventilation required where windows must remain closed
System performance depends on correct category classification and full envelope integrity.
Our Reports
AACG traffic noise reports are:
- Prepared for QDC MP 4.4 compliance
- Suitable for development application and building approval
- Structured for council and certifier review
Each report includes:
- Identification of Transport Noise Corridor status
- External noise assessment
- Noise category classification
- Construction requirements for compliance
- Clear, buildable specifications
Our Process
AACG applies a structured methodology:
- Review of site location and TNC mapping
- Assessment of traffic noise exposure
- Determination of QDC noise category
- Development of compliant construction requirements
Outputs are:
- Suitable for approval without rework
- Coordinated with design documentation
- Ready for construction
Our Quality
AACG reports are defined by:
- Accurate category classification
- Alignment with QDC MP 4.4 requirements
- Consistent documentation standards
- Practical, buildable recommendations
Each assessment is site-specific and compliance-driven.
Our Commercial Approach
Traffic noise requirements in Queensland impact:
- Glazing systems
- Building envelope design
- Ventilation strategy
AACG ensures:
- Correct category is identified early
- Over-specification is avoided
- Solutions align with construction methods
This reduces cost risk and improves approval efficiency.
Our Guarantees
AACG provides:
- Council-ready traffic noise assessments
- Clear and defendable category classification
- Consistent, professional documentation
We also provide:
- Coordination with architects and builders
- Responses to council or certifier queries
- Ongoing support through design changes
Request a Traffic Noise Assessment (Queensland)
AACG will:
- Review your site and Transport Noise Corridor status
- Confirm QDC MP 4.4 requirements
- Provide a clear scope for compliance
