A performance or booking agreement outlines the range of obligations that venues and musicians must abide by when negotiating a live performance. A written agreement or contract will ensure that musicians are protected by the obligations outlined in the contract and are paid what is agreed upon by both parties. This is especially important in the event of a dispute, or if a venue refuses to pay a musician in full or on time.

When drafting up a performance agreement, you should include the following information:

• Musician(s) full name and contact details
• Details of the venue, including the name, address and point of contact (venues owner/ manager)
• Date of the performance
• Load-in times and venue access
• Sound check-time
• Performance time
• Whether a sound engineer is provided
• Rate of pay (including Musicians Australia’s $250 minimum fee)
• Date of pay
• Method of pay
• Cover charge
• Costs of venue hire
• Cancellation policy
• Insurances
• Signature and date, for all parties entering into the contract

Please refer to Music Victoria’s website for more detailed information on what to include in performance agreements.

For sample contracts and agreements, refer to the Live Music Office’s templates here.

For more information on different terms of payment, click here.