policy_tas.html

NOISE POLICY FOR TASMANIA

To all residents: THIS IS AN IMPORTANT HEALTH MATTER FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILES.

The Tasmanian community objected to the Tasmanian Government's previous unsatisfactory Noise Policy - it was rejected by the Resource Planning and Development Commission's Review Panel. The Chairman ordered that it be re-written.

Originally there were a mere 116 public submissions. (Twice the number for the Air policy - which shows the comparative value that Tasmanians place on residential quiet).

At the public hearings a large sample of (confidential) residential noise case studies was presented to the panel, unveiling the horrendous amount of suffering in Tasmanian communities from noise-related sleep deprivation and ruination of quiet enjoyment of home-life.

Environmental laws are supposed to “protect” all of us from cross-boundary noise. Research shows that these laws are mostly not enforced, and the laws DO NOT WORK. The World Health Organisation is clear in its warning to all governments - act now - and stop the suffering.

Please be ready for release of the next Draft Noise Policy AND HAVE YOUR SAY. A brief letter would suffice. You can request confidentiality! Please look at the draft Noise Policy when it is released, and submit your demands for regulated direction that police and municipal councils respond quickly and efficiently to noise complaints, and issue infringement notices! This is a human health issue. The perceived rights of one group in any community to indulge themselves in loud activities which adversely impact on the wellbeing of another other group, against that group's wishes, must not only be limited, but disallowed.

The next Draft Noise Policy for Tasmania will give YOU the opportunity to have your say. If you value quiet enjoyment of your home please take a few minutes to read the Draft, and respond.

Please send your message to where it counts. The Draft is due for release by end of 2006 - but keep watching- it may take longer.