Busking involves a public performance at a designated busking location for voluntary donations from the public. If you would like to perform as a busker on the Gold Coast you need to apply for a busking permit.
You don’t need a permit from us for busking on private property.
Do you need a busking permit?
You need a busking permit if your performance involves any of the following activities:
- playing musical instruments
- drama or theatrical performance
- dancing
- singing
- circus performing
- acts of similar nature but not including:
- pavement or chalk art
- tarot card reading, palm reading or fortune telling
- massage therapy
- art created by spray paint
- the sale of any goods (not relating to the performance).
We do not permit performances that involve the use of dangerous goods or instruments such as flammable materials, fire, lit torches, knives, spears and swords.
Busking locations
We welcome buskers at designated locations in:
- Southport
- Surfers Paradise
- Broadbeach
- Burleigh Heads
- Miami / Nobby Beach
- Coolangatta
- Kirra
- Tugun
- Mudgeeraba.
We reserve the right to restrict or prohibit busking at certain locations during special events, festivals and public holidays.
Before you apply
For details on permit requirements, refer to our Busking guidelines(PDF, 2MB).
We recommend you check What's On Gold Coast and My Neighbourhood for any scheduled events, Council projects or other activities that may affect busking opportunities in your preferred location.
Submit your application and all supporting documentation at least 20 business days before you want to start busking.
Permits are granted following an assessment process. We cannot guarantee your application will be approved.
Required documents
Provide the following documents with your application to avoid processing delays:
- audition video (if you have not held a busking permit from us within the last 12 months)
- public liability insurance certificate of currency for a minimum $20 million (if involving equipment, instruments, props, certain actions or audience/animal participation)
- a suitability statement (if you have had a busking permit refused, suspended or cancelled).
We may contact you for additional information during the assessment process.
Fees and permit period
Busking permit fees are outlined in our current Register of Fees and Charges.
Busking permits are renewed annually and are valid until 31 August each year. For more information visit Permits & licensing renewals.
How to apply
Apply for a permit online. If you can’t apply online or need assistance, call us on 07 5667 5987.
Apply online
Manage an existing licence or permit
To change contact information or request a change to your approval, use the Amend a licence/permit form.
To cancel an existing licence/permit, use the Cancel a licence/permit form.
To apply for replacement approval documentation for your permit or licence, use the Replace approval documentation form.