Policy & planning changes

Your say on the updated busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practice policy

What we’re doing

We invite your feedback on our updated busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practice local approvals policy.

We’ve reviewed the policy and we’re proposing the following changes:

  • Local Government Act references have been simplified to make it easier for buskers to understand and follow the regulations related to public performances.
  • Clarification on queueing arrangements. We’ve provided clear direction on queueing etiquette to ensure the safe use of public spaces and avoid unattended infrastructure and equipment being left in these spaces.

The busking code has been updated with:

  • amended performance sites in Pitt Street Mall 
  • designation of special busking sites along George Street.

Why we’re doing this

The current policy was developed after significant review of the City of Sydney busking policy and guidelines in 2018. The changes to the policy balanced supporting the contribution made by buskers to Sydney’s character and the need to ensure the safety, amenity and harmonious enjoyment of public spaces for all.

A new busking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practice policy was approved by Council in 2019 and reviewed in 2022.

The current local approvals policy expires in September 2025, following the declaration of the poll for the 2024 Council election.

How you can give feedback

Consultation closes at 5pm on Tuesday 5 August 2025.

  1. Complete our survey

    You'll need to log in with a City of Sydney account to complete the survey. If you don't have an account, it's easy to create one.

  2. Email or post your feedback

    You can give your feedback by email to sydneyyoursay@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or post to:

    Lisa Colley
    Manager Cultural Strategy
    City of Sydney
    456 Kent Street
    Sydney NSW 2000

Next steps

After this consultation, we’ll consider all feedback and report the results to Council. If Council approves the policy, it will be submitted to the Office of Local Government for consent to proceed.