Port operations at White Bay and Glebe Island run 24 hours a day, with noise generated by ships, cargo handling, trucks, and terminal equipment (such as cranes and forklifts). Port Authority’s own operations, including construction, port development, and vessel movements, may also contribute to noise.
While Port Authority is not directly responsible for noise from ships and stevedore activities, we recognise the impact on the local community and are committed to monitoring and reducing noise from both vessels and landside operations at Glebe Island and White Bay.
Port noise policy – Glebe Island and White Bay commercial shipping
A Port Noise Policy and Vessel Noise Operating Protocol have been developed for commercial shipping for Glebe Island and White Bay. This policy and protocol aims to balance noise management with the ongoing, long-term role of the ports as working facilities.
Noise mitigation strategy – White Bay Cruise Terminal and White Bay 4
A Noise Mitigation Strategy has been developed and implemented to manage noise from cruise ships at White Bay Cruise Terminal and White Bay Berth 4. This strategy includes:
- A noise attenuation program, providing mitigation treatments for residences near White Bay Cruise Terminal and White Bay Berth 4
- The Noise Restriction Policy addressing excessive noise from cruise vessel operations, including non-safety-related noise such as on-deck music and public announcements, with a system of consequences for breaches
- Continuous, real-time noise logging to monitor noise levels and guide ongoing noise management. Reports are available at Monthly noise monitoring reports.
Global noise management initiatives
Port Authority is a Board Member of Project NEPTUNES, a global initiative focused on sustainable port operations. As part of this, Port Authority has contributed to the development of:
- A universal noise measurement protocol
- Guidelines for vessel noise labelling
- A best practice guide for noise abatement measures to reduce noise from berthed ships
Shore power implementation
Port Authority has committed to installing and supplying Shore Power—sourced from certified renewable energy—to the White Bay Cruise Terminal by the end of 2026. This initiative is expected to reduce cruise ship noise by up to 10dB.
Community engagement and complaints procedure
Port Authority has a complaints procedure in place for White Bay Cruise Terminal and Glebe Island to address community concerns regarding noise impacts.
Environment and place
Supporting operational pollution and emissions
Measure and reduce carbon emissions, waste, noise and electricity usage at Port Authority to reduce our impact on the environment and surrounding communities and realise associated economic benefits.
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Operations and ways of working
Supporting policy, guidelines and pricing
Continue to build on existing policies and guidelines that create safe passage for vessels, that can influence sustainable outcomes and maintain a safe and healthy marine environment.
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