About Spectrum Acoustics
Spectrum Acoustics Pty Limited is an independent environmental noise and vibration consultancy based in Cardiff, New South Wales. We provide specialist acoustic consulting services across the mining, industrial, commercial, residential and infrastructure sectors.
Our services encompass environmental noise impact assessments, operational compliance monitoring, predictive noise modelling and acoustic design advice. We assist clients throughout the planning, development and operational stages of their projects, providing assessments and recommendations informed by relevant legislation, environmental noise policies, Australian Standards and site-specific requirements.
With extensive experience in environmental acoustics, Spectrum Acoustics combines practical field knowledge with technical analysis to deliver clear, defensible assessments and practical recommendations. Our focus is on providing reliable acoustic advice that supports informed decision-making, development approvals and ongoing environmental compliance.
Our History & Experience
Established in 2003, Spectrum Acoustics has provided specialist environmental noise and vibration consulting services to clients throughout New South Wales for more than two decades. Under the direction of Principal Scientist Neil Pennington, the company has developed extensive experience in environmental noise assessment, regulatory compliance and acoustic management across a diverse range of industries.
Spectrum Acoustics has a longstanding involvement in the NSW mining and extractive industries, particularly coal mining operations throughout the Hunter Valley, Upper Hunter and Gunnedah Basin. Our work has encompassed environmental impact assessments, operational noise compliance monitoring, predictive noise modelling and the development of noise management strategies for mining and quarry operations.
Beyond the extractive industries, our experience extends to industrial facilities, commercial developments, residential projects and infrastructure. We have assisted clients with development applications, environmental approvals, operational compliance requirements and acoustic design considerations across projects of varying scale and complexity.
This breadth of experience provides Spectrum Acoustics with a practical understanding of environmental noise issues, regulatory requirements and the challenges associated with managing noise emissions in both established operations and proposed developments.
Our Approach
Spectrum Acoustics takes a practical, project-specific approach to environmental noise and vibration assessment. We consider the nature of the proposed development or existing operation, the surrounding environment and the applicable regulatory requirements to determine an appropriate assessment methodology.
Our assessments draw on field measurements, acoustic data analysis and predictive noise modelling to establish a strong quantitative basis for our findings and recommendations. We use these findings to identify potential noise impacts, assess compliance with relevant criteria and recommend appropriate noise management or mitigation measures.
We work directly with clients throughout the assessment process, from establishing project requirements and undertaking site investigations through to preparing technical reports and responding to regulatory enquiries. Our focus is on providing clear advice, supported by sound technical assessment, that clients can use to make informed decisions about their projects.
Our Consultants
Neil Pennington
Principal Scientist | Director
B.Sc (Physics), B.Math (Hons), MAIP, MAAS, MASA
Neil has worked in acoustic consulting since 1996 and has been a Principal and Director of Spectrum Acoustics since 2003. His experience encompasses environmental noise and vibration impact assessments, predictive noise modelling, engineering noise control and environmental compliance.
Neil has extensive experience in the NSW mining industry, particularly in the assessment and management of noise emissions from coal mining operations. His work includes environmental impact assessments, operational noise management, predictive modelling and the development of Noise Management Plans.
He has also undertaken specialist research into outdoor sound propagation and the influence of atmospheric conditions on environmental noise, including research funded by the Australian coal industry. Neil has provided expert acoustic evidence in the NSW Land and Environment Court and other assessment proceedings.
Matt Pennington
Project Consultant
B.Env.Sc.Mgt, MAAS
Matt has worked in environmental acoustics since 2016, with extensive experience in environmental noise compliance monitoring, acoustic impact assessments and predictive noise modelling. His role at Spectrum Acoustics includes managing and coordinating environmental noise compliance monitoring programs, overseeing technical assessments and reporting, and providing acoustic advice to clients.
Matt has particular experience in the mining and extractive industries, having undertaken environmental noise monitoring and compliance assessments for coal mining operations and quarries throughout NSW. His work includes interpreting development consent conditions, Environment Protection Licence requirements and applicable environmental noise policies.
Beginning his career in field-based acoustic monitoring, Matt progressed into acoustic data analysis and technical reporting before moving into a consulting role in 2022. Since then, his responsibilities have expanded to encompass all aspects of Spectrum Acoustics’ consulting services, including environmental noise impact assessments, predictive noise modelling, acoustic design and compliance assessments, technical reporting and client liaison across mining, industrial, commercial and residential projects.