Through the Green Energy Approvals Initiative, the State is improving coordination across agencies and strengthening regulatory processes to enable renewable energy projects while protecting communities and the environment.
Within this broader program of work, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) regulates environmental noise under the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 (Noise Regulations). These regulations set the standards that apply to noise received at homes and other noise-sensitive premises, including noise from wind farms.
As more wind farm projects are proposed across the State, the Government is progressing reforms to update how noise from wind farms is managed while ensuring the regulatory framework remains clear, consistent and effective.
In addition to the changes proposed in the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage’s draft Renewable Energy Code, DWER is developing complementary amendments to the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.
DWER is continuing to work with DPLH and other agencies to support a coordinated approach across the planning and environmental regulatory frameworks.
Wind Farm Noise Reform – Frequently Asked Questions
What is DWER’s role in regulating wind farm noise?
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Why is the State Government reviewing wind farm noise regulation?
Show moreThe State Government is reviewing how wind farm noise is managed to ensure the regulatory framework is clear, consistent and keeps pace with the growth of renewable energy projects in Western Australia. As more wind farms are proposed, it is important that noise assessment and regulation continue to support good planning outcomes and help manage potential land use conflicts between wind farms and new houses or other noise-sensitive premises.
This work aligns with initiatives being progressed by the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH), including the development of a draft Renewable Energy Planning Code and proposed amendments to the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015.
The DWER review aims to improve clarity, consistency, and confidence in how wind farm noise is regulated, particularly as new developments and surrounding land uses continue to evolve. This work seeks to ensure a consistent and transparent approach across planning and environmental regulatory frameworks.
What is DWER doing to support the DPLH reforms?
Show moreWhat are neighbour agreements, and does DWER recognise them?
Show moreNeighbour agreements are private arrangements between wind farm operators and nearby landholders not hosting wind turbines or associated infrastructure on their land, but that may be impacted by the project. These agreements may include commercial arrangements between the project operator and neighbour that recognises the possible impacts of the project on the neighbour.
While these agreements can assist with managing expectations, they have no formal recognition within planning or environmental legislation.
Consultation processes for the reforms
Show moreDPLH has commenced consultation on Renewable Energy Planning Code relating to wind farms, with further information available at Draft Renewable Energy Planning Code
DWER is planning targeted consultation on proposed changes to the Noise Regulations, which is anticipated to commence prior to mid-2026. Further information will be provided on this page as the work progresses. For individual queries on this process please contact noisereform@dwer.wa.gov.au.
Why is this important?
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