Attention Melbourne buskers: want to play in a premium spot in Bourke Street Mall? You're gonna have to earn it.
The City of Melbourne has today announced budding musicians will have to audition to cement their spot and in return receive a premium permit.
“Melbourne’s streets offer an invaluable space for more than 2,000 buskers keen to hone their skills and make their names known,” Councillor Rohan Leppert said.
“This new process will help cut waiting times for buskers who want to perform in premium locations, with a mix of established and emerging performers given the opportunity to audition.
“Each performer will be given 10 minutes to impress a panel of City of Melbourne judges. Successful buskers will receive a permit to perform in Bourke Street Mall, and will be required to re-audition every three years.”
Traditionally, a premium permit can only be obtained by having a general area permit for at least six months, but the newly-announced auditions will fast-track that process.
“Melbourne’s buskers add to the vibrancy and atmosphere of our city streets and are an integral part of our creative community,” Leppert said.
“We want to foster our busking community’s growth, helping to support new or emerging talent. Major acts like Tasha Sultana and the Pierce Brothers have proven how busking can be help build a brand and lead to long-term success."
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