The Victorian Government has quietly announced a new trial of acoustic cameras, designed specifically to target “antisocial” drivers.
The cameras are fitted with a microphone and are triggered when loud vehicles pass by, following a similar recent trial in New South Wales that claimed all events recorded were related to aggressive acceleration.
It’s understood seven of the devices will be set up across four locations across Melbourne, “to deal with hoon drivers, because we’re sick of them“, said local MP Steve Dimopoulos in a social media post.
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While exact details have not yet been outlined, Yarra Boulevard – a popular winding road with elevated views of the Yarra River, bushland, and the city – is believed to be one of the areas being targeted, following ongoing complaints from residents.
Last month, Councillor and former mayor of Boroondara, Sophia Torney, told ABC Melbourne radio that $5 million worth of upgrades to reduce speed and increase safety along Yarra Boulevard had been ineffective against hoons.
Cr Torney called for the remaining allocation of $7 million in federal government funding to be redirected to other efforts, such as noise cameras, road closures, and “calming measures” – adding that the council wanted the government to “act now before there’s another death on this stretch of road”.
According to Transport Victoria, there were three fatalities along Yarra Boulevard in the 10 years to January 2024. However, CarExpert was unable to find any reports of road fatalities related to hoon behaviour since the upgrades were installed.
The City of Port Phillip is also expected to be part of the trial, following a push by the council’s mayor.
“Council has been advocating for anti-hooning measures since 2022 as our residents shouldn’t feel scared and sleepless by this dangerous behaviour,” Port Phillip Mayor Alex Making said recently, following hundreds of complaints from residents about hoon behaviour.
MORE: Hoon noise camera trial ends, but more could pop up soon