What is busking?
Busking is a public performance in exchange for a donation. This may include playing of a musical instrument, singing, giving a recitation or performing any conjuring, juggling, puppetry, mime, dance or other entertainment or doing any of those things concurrently. Busking also includes pavement art such as chalk art, drawing and painting.
Melbourne has a strong history of busking and buskers contribute to the character and culture of the City of Melbourne.
- Busker Stories is a documentary series on YouTubeOpens in new tab that highlights the stories behind Melbourne’s buskers and what it takes to busk in the city.
- Unseen: The story of Melbourne's busking heritageOpens in new tab, explores Melbourne's busking history. Episode TwoOpens in new tab features The Pierce Brothers, who explain how busking can launch a performance career.
Where can I find buskers in Melbourne?
Buskers may be found performing all through the city. The most popular locations include Bourke Street Mall, Swanston Street, St Kilda Road, and other areas along Southbank Promenade. Find out where to find buskers in MelbourneOpens in new tab.
We also publish a weekly roster for Bourke Street Mall buskingOpens in new tab.
The Busking ProjectOpens in new tab features many Melbourne buskers and street performers. Search Melbourne in the location for busker profiles. You can also tip your favourite performer here.
Beyond Bourke StreetOpens in new tab has a wealth of videos, podcasts, and playlists of Melbourne Buskers.
Explore our busking map and find out where buskers are allowed to perform on Busking locations.
Is there a list of performers I can look through?
We keep our busking database private and confidential. But we can help you find a performer for a gig, festival, or corporate function. If you have any opportunities for buskers, please contact us on 03 9658 9658.
There is also a community run Melbourne Buskers Facebook pageOpens in new tab where you can list your event to find buskers.
How can I show my appreciation for buskers?
Buskers traditionally put out an open guitar case, a hat, or a tip jar to receive cash donations
You may notice that our performers are now offering new ways for you to support them - generally in the form of a personal QR code that will take you to a digital tipping option.
If you take photos or videos of buskers, please consider offering a cash or digital tip to support their work.
Use these hashtags across social media to promote your favourite performers:
- #MelbourneBuskers
- #BourkeStreetMallBuskers
I'd like to start busking in Melbourne – how can I get involved?
Wonderful – we’d love to have you perform in our city. For all the details about busking in Melbourne, visit the pages below.
Information for buskers
Report an issue
Under the City of Melbourne’s Activities Local Law 2024, a permit is required for busking in a public place. We encourage buskers, retailers and residents to resolve issues amicably, with the aim of allowing the busking activity to continue. If you believe a busker is operating without a permit, breaching the conditions of their permit or acting in a disruptive manner in a public space, please let us know.
Report a busking issue
