As a politician you are in a position to affect positive change in the community.  You only have to look at the statistics quickly to realise that hearing damage from loud music is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately. The costs of hearing loss to Australia were estimated at $11.75 bilion in 2005, which represented 1.4 per cent of Australia's then Gross Domestic Product. 1 in 6 Australians suffer from hearing loss and this will increase to 1 in 4 by 2050...many of these due to over exposure to loud music.

Hearing health is a mainstream health issue which touches the lives of most Australians in some way, yet as a public heatlh isse it is not ranked as a national health priority.  Australians with hearing loss must live with the paradox tha their disability is so prealent in our community, and yet suffers from a generally low level of awareness and understnading*.

Currently, staff are protected from loud noise in clubs and pubs under workplace healthy and safety guidelines.  Those outside the club (neighbours, public) are protected from liquor licensing guidelines.  There are no standards or guidelines to protect the patrons of the venue from loud music.  In the latest research study presented in the ‘Binge Listening’ Report, it was discovered that the average noise levels in nightclubs steadily increases as the night goes on.
It also found that the average level of music within these venues is over 100 decibels, which can cause damage in only 15 minutes. 

Take Action now!

*Senate Inquiry into Australia's Hearing Health, 2010.