Please find below the latest update on works underway in the Hart Precinct and ongoing efforts to minimise impacts on the local community.

Interface Treatment Update

Fence construction

Progress continues on the planned Corten fence presented in our December 2025 update.

• The Airport Building Controller (ABC) has approved the required permit, and a contractor has now been formally appointed, allowing construction to commence.
• Although design approvals took longer than anticipated due to additional geotechnical investigations, early procurement of materials has helped keep the project on schedule.
• Construction is expected to be completed by the end of May 2026.

The fence will extend approximately 230 metres along the Lebanon Street boundary. This length has been selected because it directly fronts the Autex development, where the need for improved privacy and visual screening is greatest. The indicative design was shared in our December update, with the fence location shown on the site plan above.

Next steps

Once the Corten fence has been installed, landscaping works will begin. These works will include tree planting and complementary screening vegetation to enhance the boundary and improve visual amenity. Landscaping will be delivered alongside the retarding basin. A further update on the Retarding Basin Works will be provided in the coming weeks.

Tenant Operations

We continue ongoing monitoring and auditing of tenant operations across the precinct. Working closely with all tenants remains a priority to ensure operations comply with all relevant legislation, guidelines and environmental requirements, including noise management obligations.

As part of our commitment to keeping local residents informed, please find below the latest update on what Essendon Fields is doing to manage and reduce impacts from tenant operations in the Hart Precinct.

Interface Treatment Update

We’re continuing to make progress on planned improvements along the Global Avenue residential boundary. Below is an update on how we’re tracking against the milestones shared in December:

• Community feedback was invited in December on the proposed 4.5‑metre‑high Corten fence As no feedback was received, we are proceeding with the indicative design shown below.
• The detailed engineering design for the Corten fence, originally expected in late December, required additional geotechnical testing. This testing was completed in January, enabling engineering design to progress. This is now complete.
• Airport Building Controller approval – initially anticipated for early to mid‑January – was delayed due to the additional geo-technical testing requirements. The application has now been submitted.
• A contractor has been formally engaged to deliver the fence installation. Procurement and project planning are underway, and works remain on schedule for completion in May 2026.
• Following installation of the fence, landscaping works will commence, including tree planting and the addition of complementary screening vegetation to enhance the interface.

Operations Update

As part of ongoing efforts to minimise impacts on residents, Autex Acoustics have amended their Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) to strengthen noise mitigation measures.

A key component of this update is the introduction of revised waste collection hours, ensuring they align with the EPA Noise Control Guidelines (May 2021).

Updated Waste Collection Hours – Autex Site:

We continue to work closely with the tenant to ensure that operations are undertaken in accordance with the relevant legislation and guidelines.

Interface Treatment (Screening and Landscape)

Following the completion of our due diligence investigations, we are continuing to progress the design and resolution of the ultimate interface treatment.

We are pleased, however, that today we can share with you a photomontage of the proposed location, height and materiality of the proposed wall. Once embellished with the final landscaping elements, we think that this will be a safe, effective and high quality outcome.

A 4.5m high Corten fence is proposed along the existing Autex site boundary. As part of this process, a number of fencing options have been reviewed and assessed. The Corten product will provide the most effective acoustic treatment as well as integrating and complementing the landscape solution which will form part of the overall interface treatment. The downside of this selection is that it is subject to an extended procurement timeframe.

A photomontage has been prepared and included below, which provides a visual representation of the Corten fencing solution as viewed from Lebanon Street. Should you have any feedback or wish to meet to discuss this further, please contact planning@ef.com.au by Friday 5 December to allow us to facilitate these discussions. In order to commence the detailed design process and deliver the fence as soon as possible we are looking to engage the contractor and commence detailed design by Monday 8 December.

We intend to deliver the ultimate interface treatment in a staged manner, with the permanent fencing to be located along the Autex boundary (approximately at the location of the temporary shade mesh fence) to be delivered as soon as reasonably practicable. A number of regulatory approvals will be required, and we are engaging with and working closely with the Airport Building Controller and the Commonwealth to allow us to expedite any approvals following the completion of the design. The following sets out our current key milestones to deliver the first stage of works:

• Concept agreed, detailed design (including engineering design): to be completed prior to Christmas
• Airport Building Control Approval: Early – Mid January
• Material Procurement and Construction: Completed by Early May (we acknowledge there is a gap in time between the approvals being received and the construction start time. This is the result of an extended lead time from the material supplier for the Corten fencing product. The final engineering design is required to be signed off by the Airport Building Controller before the material order can be placed).

The interface treatment will form part of a holistic approach, with the ongoing monitoring and auditing of tenant operations remaining a continued focus. We will work closely with our tenants to ensure that operations are undertaken in accordance with the relevant legislation and guidelines.

Current Operations

We have been made aware of a recent late-night delivery and noise. Autex has confirmed that this was associated with the delivery of some equipment which was an unusual activity and not part of normal operations. We have asked Autex to provide advance notice of any planned activities that may cause disruption as a courtesy to residents wherever possible.

We are also pleased to advise that we can confirm that an operational change has been made to forklift alarms at the Autex site, which have now been changed to Broadband alerts.

We are aware that the temporary fencing currently installed along the Autex boundary has been damaged due to recent high winds, and we have asked the contractor to expedite the repair of the shadecloth.

We will continue to provide updates regarding the progress of works as they become available, and we look forward to any comments about the fence this week.

As part of our ongoing commitment to keep local residents informed, please find below the latest update on the steps Essendon Fields is taking to manage and mitigate impacts from tenant operations within the Hart Precinct.

Our goal is to ensure that all activities remain compliant with relevant standards while delivering solutions that balance operational needs with community expectations.

Street Lighting and Flood Lighting

Our electrical contractor has completed lux testing, including Global Avenue Street lighting and Autex hardstand and flood lighting. Australian street lighting lux levels are governed by the AS/NZS 1158 series, with specific levels varying by road type and function.  The testing confirms that all lighting lux levels are compliant and all lighting has been installed in accordance with approved designs.  Despite this, we have committed to providing additional permanent screening as part of the overall Landscape Interface works, including planting and visual barriers.

We have noticed that the temporary shade cloth screening has been damaged in recent high winds and will prioritize its repair to ensure the temporary solution remains effective.

Operations & Forklift Noise

Our team are continuing to work closely with Autex in relation to their operations following the adjustment to the waste collection schedule noted in the October update.  As part of these discussions, we have escalated conversations regarding potential changes to the forklift reversing alarms, and have requested an updated Operational Management Plan that responds to recent enquiries we have fielded from the EPA.  Alternative rubbish collection zones are being considered and Autex has been very helpful in rescheduling rubbish pickups in response to resident feedback.

Interface Treatment (Screening and Landscape)

We have progressed due diligence investigations in consultation with the acoustic engineers, landscape designers, and contractors to progress our interface design.  Thank you for your patience while these investigations have been completed – it’s taken a little longer than expected because we have asked our consultants to consider a range of scenarios.

As part of the work, we have completed noise monitoring and collected detailed decibel readings.  A number of treatment options have been assessed, which included several types of fence panel types, locations and heights.  The outcome of this assessment and the advice of the acoustic consultant is that an acoustic fence will deliver an improved but not perfect outcome.  As a result of this work, we are progressing a hybrid solution, that combines a smaller fence that will deliver some visual and acoustic improvements, combined with landscape and operational improvements.  We are confident this mix will produce a solution that is compliant with the relevant guidelines and legislation, and effective in practice.

As previously communicated we have requested the support of the Airport Building Controller and the Commonwealth, and they remain committed to assisting with expediting a building permit if one is required following the completion of the design.

Next steps

We have asked our landscape architect to produce a visual representation of the proposed solution, and hope to share that with you in our next update, along with an updated delivery program.

Thanks again to all neighbouring residents for your patience and understanding.

We appreciate the communication that we have received from residents over the past couple of months regarding impacts from operations at the Autex facility.
Essendon Fields are committed to taking all reasonable steps to address the community’s legitimate concerns and have undertaken the following.

ACTIONS COMPLETED TO DATE:

Overnight Waste Collections

We’re aware that several residents have experienced disturbance from late-night / early morning waste collections at Autex.

We’ve worked hard to coordinate changes with Autex and our contractors to provide immediate relief while we work on permanent solutions. Autex has been very helpful in taking steps to resolve this issue, including adjusting the waste collection times. Unfortunately, there was a period of time when the waste contractor continued to operate early in the mornings. To prevent this occurring in the future, Autex has now removed after-hours access for their waste contractor (access hours restricted to 6am-9pm).

We are also reviewing Autex’s Operational Management Plan and will make adjustments where they are required in the context of other interventions.

Light Spill

When the building was commissioned, light spill from the hardstand floodlights impacted many residents.

Immediate steps were taken to reduce the impact of new lights, including turning the lights off at night, adjusting the angle of some lights, changing the recessed dock light from flashing to static, and installing a 230-metre section of temporary block-out mesh fencing.

Our inspections and feedback from residents have confirmed that this mix of measures has been effective.

Street Lighting

Our electrical contractor is currently reviewing alternative design options to further improve street lighting outcomes on Global Avenue. These measures include a review of different types of shades that may further reduce light spill.

Flood Lights

The builder’s lighting contractor has confirmed that the Autex hardstand lights are installed with a zero-degree upward tilt to minimize glare. We’re also confirming that all other external lights are fitted with baffles where required, and exploring further options with our lighting consultant to reduce light visibility.

ACTIONS IN PROGRESS:

Forklift Noise

A suggestion from one resident was to explore the possibility of switching tonal reversing alarms to broadband alarms, and this has been raised with Autex. Autex’s operational team is reviewing this suggestion, and we will convey their response as soon as possible.

Interface Treatment (Screening and Landscape)

We are continuing to gather information and undertake investigations to further enhance the current interface between the Hart Precinct and adjoining residents.

As part of this our team has been working with landscape designers, acoustic engineers and contractors to gather data to properly inform a design brief for the interface treatment.

We have expedited noise monitoring to establish background noise levels which various interface solutions can be assessed against.

Importantly, we are mindful of avoiding any unintended consequences (such as public safety risks), and while we are working quickly, it is important that we take the time to get any design right. We have also requested the support of the Airport Building Controller and the Commonwealth, who have indicated that they will help expedite a building permit if one is required.

The recently completed Autex development is now operational, with activity taking place from early morning through to late evening. Only occasional overnight use is expected at this stage.

Essendon Fields are mindful of the impact this new activity on neighbouring properties and we take community feedback seriously. Where we can, we are committed to going further to improve the boundary interface with residential properties to reduce the effects of lighting, truck movements and forklift activity.

In early September, our team prepared and presented an indicative landscape concept design to residents whose properties directly border the Hart Precinct. This consultation was an important opportunity to gather views, ideas, and concerns.

A range of feedback was received, with the most common request being for immediate temporary screening measures to be installed while we finalise and implement longer-term landscape improvements.

While we value and carefully consider every suggestion, a range of factors also need to be considered, meaning some ideas may take longer to implement. For example, the installation of any solid fencing—even on a temporary basis—requires an engineering review and the appropriate building permits. These measures are in place to ensure structures can withstand wind and ground conditions and do not create safety risks for the community. We also need to ensure Autex and their contractors can safely operate their plant and equipment, which includes maintaining essential lighting and warning systems.

As an interim measure, we are trialling temporary wire fencing fitted with blackout mesh along a section of the boundary, for its effectiveness in improving screening in the short-term, while longer-term solutions are progressed. In addition, the deciduous trees already planted along the boundary will soon provide natural screening as they develop their summer foliage.

We remain committed to improving the interface over time and will continue to provide updates as new measures are designed and implemented.

We thank residents for their input, patience and understanding as we work through both the short- and long-term solutions. We also apologise for any ongoing inconvenience while these improvements are being delivered.

Construction works are now complete on Autex Acoustics’ new warehouse, office and showroom at 121 – 131 Global Avenue. This facility will be used by Autex to produce environmentally friendly acoustic panels and insulation material.

Operations are also commencing at 117 Global Avenue, for Modscape to utilise the land opposite their facility as a storage area for completed wrapped building modules, prior to these modules being loaded onto trucks and transported offsite. This storage will be used for an initial 2-year period, over which time there will be occasional movements of modules via truck and crane during working hours (7am – 5pm). Modules will be stacked no more than 2-modular units high.

We have received feedback from some residents of Lebanon Street about extra steps Essendon Fields may consider taking to improve the interface with adjoining residential properties and onsite activity, with a particular request to improve screening along the boundary.

Essendon Fields are working with a landscape design team to prepare landscape interface concepts that respond directly to the concerns raised.

We also continue to collate and consider the results of the Hart Precinct Public Realm Engagement Survey, which ran online between March and May 2025. To find out more about the engagement process, please visit: ef.com.au/hartprecinct-have-your-say/. The results of this survey will be published later this month.

We thank neighbours for their feedback, and invite the community to continue to get in touch with questions or concerns.

Construction works are nearing completion on a new 10,600 square metre warehouse and office development at 121 – 131 Global Avenue.

Once operational, the building will be used as a showroom and manufacturing facility for Autex Acoustics to produce environmentally friendly acoustic panels and insulation material.

Essendon Fields is committed to receiving feedback from stakeholders about the impacts and opportunities of our development projects.

An online survey is currently open until 15 May 2025, to help Essendon Fields understand what public amenity might be most valued by the community in the Hart Precinct. To access this engagement survey, please click here.

As part of this process, our team is also investigating landscaping treatment options along the airport boundary. We appreciate your ongoing patience as we develop our plans, and will communicate further details regarding the findings of the community survey as soon as possible.

As part of the construction of a new 10,600 square metre warehouse and office development at 121 – 131 Global Avenue, contractors recently undertook bulk earthwork on site, which were initially due to commence in August 2024.

During the initial bulk earthworks phase of construction, we have been made aware of additional noise, dust and vibration. All work on site is being closely managed and monitored in accordance with the approved Construction Environmental Management Plan, and Essendon Fields is working closely with contractors to manage the impact on the surrounding community, including increasing watering to minimise dust blow-off from the site. These earthworks have now concluded.

We thank you for your ongoing patience as we completed these necessary works, and invite you to discuss any concerns with our team.

Construction at 121 – 131 Global Avenue will commence in August, with initial works including establishment of the site sheds and bulk earthworks.

During the initial bulk earthworks phase there may be some noise, dust and vibration, all of which will be closely managed and monitored in accordance with the approved Construction Environment Management Plan. It is anticipated that the earthworks will take four to six weeks to complete.

The Airport is a highly regulated environment and all soil is tested for contaminants prior to excavation and movement, with a risk assessment undertaken to ensure it is appropriately managed. All soil being used for the bulk earthworks has been tested, with low levels of PFAS being detected. The low concentrations pose no risk to human health and can be re-used as general fill without any form of treatment.

P1 Project Management has been appointed to manage the project, with contractors FDC appointed to build the new warehouse development. Essendon Fields has established a stakeholder management framework with our project team to ensure all contractors working onsite are proactively managing the impact of our development activity on the surrounding community.

For details, refer to the Project Works Update.

Essendon Fields is committed to communicating with our stakeholders about how we manage the impacts of our development projects at the airport.

Due to ongoing development projects that are being delivered under our Master Plan, excavated soil is being temporarily placed along the Lebanon Street boundary, as indicated on the site plan.  These truck and soil movements will gradually reduce and cease over the coming weeks as our contractors complete excavation works.

The airport is a highly regulated environment, and all soil is tested for contaminants prior to excavation and movement, with a risk assessment undertaken to ensure it is appropriately managed. Soil sampling has revealed the excavated soil contains low levels of PFAS, which poses no risk to human health and can be re-used as general fill without any form of treatment. The Airport Environment Officer has approved the excavation and temporary placement of this soil, which over time will be re-used throughout the airport.

However, we understand stakeholders’ concerns about the location and visual impact of the soil stockpile, and in the short-term, this soil is being reshaped to minimise visual impact, and has been sown with grass seed to suppress dust blow off.

We also appreciate concerns regarding light glare from the new warehouse development at 112-120 Global Avenue. As a result of this feedback Essendon Fields has worked with our contractors to minimise the impact of building lights on neighbouring properties, and the lighting has now been reoriented.

Our team are also investigating landscaping treatments along the airport boundary, including the planting of non-deciduous trees to provide year-round screening. We welcome your feedback as to how we can further improve visual interface with neighboring residential areas, and will continue to keep you updated regarding our development plans.