Council Actions

Councils can use smarter lighting to boost safety, save money, protect nature, and restore stars.

Good Lighting equals Good Leadership

Councils have the power to shape night-friendly communities – through policy, planning, and smart infrastructure. By rethinking how, where, and why light is used, you can improve safety, save money, support biodiversity, and bring back the stars for everyone.

Develop a local lighting policy that aligns with the National Light Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife and integrates light pollution into broader sustainability and planning frameworks.
Use qualified lighting professionals and refer to Australian Standards for Lighting (AS/NZS 1158) to guide safe, effective design.

Transition to warm-colour, fully shielded fixtures that reduce glare and upward light. Incorporate dimmers, timers, and motion sensors where appropriate to reduce unnecessary illumination. Prioritise dark sky-compliant lighting such as those certified with ADSA Approved, in all new developments.

Conduct a thorough audit of existing lighting assets - you may be surprised how much energy you’re wasting with bad lighting.

Engage professionals to ensure you’re complying with Australian standards, maximising your lighting’s effectiveness, and assessing key factors like luminance, lux, and more.

Update planning regulations and DA checklists to include light pollution considerations. Require or recommend night-friendly lighting for new builds and outdoor areas.

Host stargazing events, wildlife walks and community lighting workshops; offer rebates for responsible lighting and promote citizen science projects. Highlight your area’s unique night-time attractions and inspire your community.

ADSA APPROVED certified Luminaires prioritise precision, efficiency, and environmental care - specifically designed for Australian conditions.

Work with us to train council staff and contractors, host a sky quality survey, or get support for a lighting design review. Join a growing network of councils committed to protecting the night.

Australasian Dark Sky Alliance - Council Actions

Use ADSA
Approved Lighting

ADSA APPROVED certified Luminaires prioritise precision, efficiency, and environmental care – specifically designed for Australian conditions.

Download our Council Toolkits

Free for ADSA COUNCIL members – download our Council Toolkit to kickstart your dark sky journey. Includes lighting management plans, audit tips and more.

Protect or create
a Dark Sky Place

A Dark Sky Place is more than a designation – it’s a commitment to preserving the night for people, wildlife, and future generations.

Light Pollution Mitigation

Rachel Thompson talks about the importance of lighting designers in light pollution mitigation.
Australasian Dark Sky Alliance

We’re making a difference.

With your support, the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance is taking a successful petition to Federal Parliament to legislate against light pollution.

By becoming a member, you’ll help us protect natural darkness and leave a legacy of starry nights for future generations to enjoy.