Protest To Go Down In Melbourne Tomorrow To Rally Against 'Loud' Busking Ban

Just days after it was announced a three-month ban on "amplified" busking will be trialed on Swanston Street in Melbourne from next month, locals are already letting their opinions on the matter be known with a rally set to go down tomorrow, while a petition against it has also been launched. 

The rally will kick off from midday tomorrow at Melbourne City Town Hall — check out the Facebook event page here.

Local busker Andrew Demetriou has also started a petition calling on Lord Mayor Rob Doyle to reconsider the trial on the busy CBD street. 

"Many of us believe that it is completely unnecessary and that the busking scene in Melbourne (which is among the best in the world) could be destroyed as a result," the petition reads.

"We also feel that in light of City background noise (trams, maintenance facilities etc.) that most busking requires amplification."

"In two hours on a good day, I can make anywhere between $100-$150," Demetriou continues.

"The most I have ever made busking without tracks is $30 over two hours. This is not enough when busking is my only source of income. Swanston Street is in my opinion, the best place to busk. There are always more people walking but the sidewalks are wide which prevents busking obstructions."

Demetriou suggests that an "amplification permit" should be put in place instead, meaning musicians must audition for a busking permit before they are allowed to perform with amplification.

"Ideally through this petition, we would like things to remain the way they are. If that is not possible however, then the buskers of Melbourne would be happy to audition for an "Amplification Permit" as a compromise."

The petition has garnered over 150 signatures with a target of 200. Click here to read more.