Busking

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We welcome street performers!

We love to see talented people bring some magic to our streets, so if you would like to perform within the shire we want to help you. A permit is needed to perform on shire thoroughfares and Reserves – but these are now free of charge! Follow the simple application process further down this page to get out there and entertaining in no time.

What does a busking permit cover?

Activities that are considered buskingActivities that are NOT considered busking
  • Playing a musical instrument, singing, mime, dance routines, acrobatic or aerobic displays, creative performance
  • Drawing, painting or performing art
  • Does not include public speaking
  • May receive voluntary donations from the audience


  • Fundraising activities or promotions even if they involve an element of performance.
  • Spruiking, political, religious or otherwise
  • Tarot card reading or fortune telling
  • Face or body painting/art
  • Vendors or trading of any kind

Public land

If you wish to perform on Shire Reserves and thoroughfares, apply using the form below. Our main Margaret River locations are at the Youth Precinct (near the skate park and Shire offices), in the Festival Precinct (halfway down the main street on Fearn Ave) and on Bussell Hwy outside IGA.

Main-St-Busking-Locations.jpg

Private land

If you would like to perform on privately owned or managed land such as shopping arcades no permit is needed, but you will need to seek permission from the property owner. If performing in this type of area, please ensure you notify surrounding businesses to make them aware of the arrangement. Please show respect and do not create a nuisance to neighbouring businesses.

  1. Read the standard busking conditions below.
  2. Lodge your application using the online form below (or in person at the Shire Administration Centre, 41 Wallcliffe Rd Margaret River).
  3. Check your email for your permit.
  4. Start playing!

Note: Public Liability insurance is recommended for all performers. It is the responsibility of the performer to obtain appropriate insurance coverage if required, the Shire assumes no responsibility for any acts of negligence arising from the performance activity. 

If you stick within the standard busking conditions and want to book your spot for immediate performance, you can get a permit as soon as you lodge your form. Bam…that’s fast. Busking spots are available on a first come first in basis.

If you want to do something a bit more extravagant, busk in an alternative location, or would like to book multiple busking sessions you’ll need to get in touch with us to talk through your proposal at (08) 9780 5255.

  • Children under the age of 14 are to be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times
  • If under 16 years of age, a parent or guardian will need to fill out the application form.
  • Permits will only be granted outside of school hours and during daylight hours.

Standard Busking Conditions

These standard conditions will ensure you, your audience and those around you have a great experience.

  • Busking performance times are for a maximum of two hours.
  • Performances with up to three people are welcome. If you want to unveil your brass big band you’ll need to get in touch with us.
  • Keep the area easy to access – we want everyone to be able easily move through our thoroughfares, make sure there is plenty of access space around you for prams and wheelchairs.
  • No cars, marquees, and other structures in the performance area unless approved.
  • Noise - your music may be awesome but other people need to be able to hear each other. Only battery powered amps are to be used, with a maximum volume of 75 decibels, at a distance of 3 meters away (You can download a decibel meter app for your phone). Ensure your speakers are not directly facing into a shop entrance.
  • Keep your performance PG rated – no bad language or behaviour.
  • Sorry, no alcohol to be consumed. You’ll have to pluck up your courage another way.
  • Street art - no drawing or painting directly onto on the pavement and no aerosol paint.
  • Safety first – no animals, dangerous objects or materials such as flammable substance without prior approval.
  • Clean up after yourself – all litter associated with your performance needs to go when you do.
  • Treat members of the public and surrounding businesses with respect.
  • We may need to ask you need to cut your performance short if we need the space for another reason, if you are a recorder player, or if you don’t adhere to the above.
  • You agree to our full terms and conditions, which are a lawyer’s way of saying the above. They’re boring but not that long. By applying to perform you are acknowledging you’ve read and accepted them.
a pair of buskers

Apply for a Street Performance Permit Now!

Apply Here

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Contact Details

Margaret River

41 Wallcliffe Road,
Margaret River WA 6285
PO Box 61
Margaret River WA 6285
Monday - Friday
9am - 4pm

Augusta

66 Allnut Terrace,
Augusta WA 6290
PO Box 61
Margaret River WA 6285
Tues, Wed, Thurs
9am-12pm, 1pm-4pm
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River acknowledges we are on Wadandi and Pibelmen Boodja, whose ancestors and their descendants are the traditional owners of this country.
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