Introduction
AACG provides traffic noise assessments for development applications and building design compliance across South Australia.
Assessments are prepared in accordance with:
- Ministerial Building Standard MBS 010 – Construction requirements for the control of external sound (2023)
- Applicable planning requirements and council conditions
We define clear, compliant, and buildable construction requirements to control road traffic noise intrusion.
When You Need a Traffic Noise Assessment
A traffic noise assessment is required where:
- Development is located near designated road corridors
- The site is within a noise attenuation area
- A development application (DA) is being submitted
- Council requires compliance with MBS 010
- Residential or sensitive-use buildings are proposed
This typically applies to:
- New dwellings
- Townhouses and multi-residential developments
- Mixed-use and infill developments
MBS 010 Requirements (South Australia)
Traffic noise in South Australia is governed by MBS 010 (2023).
The standard requires:
- Building envelopes to reduce external noise intrusion
- Internal noise levels to meet defined criteria
- Construction systems to achieve required acoustic performance
Compliance is achieved by:
- Applying Deemed-to-Satisfy construction systems, or
- Developing a Performance Solution supported by an acoustic report
Internal Noise Criteria
MBS 010 defines internal sound level targets for habitable spaces.
Typical criteria include:
- Bedrooms:
- 30 dB(A) target
- 35 dB(A) maximum
- Other habitable rooms:
- 35 dB(A) target
- 40 dB(A) maximum
Compliance must be demonstrated through controlled building design.
Road Classification and Noise Exposure
Traffic noise requirements depend on:
- Proximity to designated roads (e.g. Type A roads)
- Distance from the road corridor
- Building orientation and exposure
Exposure categories determine:
- Required building element performance
- Applicable construction systems
- Level of acoustic treatment required
AACG assesses site conditions and defines the applicable exposure category.
Noise Intrusion Assessment
AACG assesses how external traffic noise transfers into internal spaces.
This includes:
- Evaluation of building façade exposure
- Assessment of glazing areas and orientation
- Analysis of noise transmission through building elements
Internal noise levels are predicted based on:
- External noise exposure
- Building geometry and layout
- Acoustic performance of materials
Construction Requirements for Compliance
Under MBS 010, compliance is achieved through defined building systems.
Glazing Systems
- Minimum glazing thickness and configuration defined
- Requirements vary based on window size and exposure
- Acoustic seals required to all operable elements
External Walls
- Must achieve required Rw + Ctr ratings (typically 50)
- Masonry or multi-layer systems used
- All penetrations sealed
Roof and Ceiling Systems
- Defined insulation and lining systems
- Performance requirements typically Rw + Ctr 40–45
- Critical for upper-level rooms
Doors and Openings
- Solid core construction required
- Acoustic sealing to maintain envelope performance
Floor Systems (where applicable)
- Concrete or treated lightweight systems
- Designed to limit sound transmission
System performance depends on complete building envelope integrity.
Our Reports
AACG traffic noise reports are:
- Prepared for development application submission
- Fully aligned with MBS 010 requirements
- Structured for council and certifier review
Each report includes:
- Site-specific noise assessment
- Identification of exposure category
- Internal noise criteria
- Detailed construction requirements
- Clear, buildable specifications
Our Process
AACG applies a structured methodology:
- Review of site location and planning controls
- Identification of road classification and exposure
- Assessment of building design and façade conditions
- Application of MBS 010 construction requirements
- Preparation of compliant documentation
Outputs are:
- Coordinated with architectural drawings
- Suitable for approval without rework
- Clearly defined for construction
Our Quality
AACG reports are defined by:
- Alignment with current MBS 010 requirements
- Accurate interpretation of exposure categories
- Consistent documentation standards
- Focus on compliant internal outcomes
We do not produce generic reports.
Each assessment is site-specific and construction-driven.
Our Commercial Approach
Traffic noise compliance directly impacts:
- Glazing systems
- Wall construction
- Roof and ceiling systems
AACG ensures:
- Requirements are defined early
- Deemed-to-Satisfy solutions are used where appropriate
- Over-specification is avoided
This reduces cost risk and improves buildability.
Our Guarantees
AACG provides:
- Council-ready traffic noise assessments
- Clear and defendable compliance criteria
- Consistent, professional documentation
We also provide:
- Coordination with architects and designers
- Responses to council queries
- Ongoing support through design changes
Request a Traffic Noise Assessment (South Australia)
AACG will:
- Review your site and road exposure
- Confirm MBS 010 requirements
- Provide a clear scope for your acoustic report
