Below are just some of the issues you will need to take into account if you are using performers, live music and/or pre-recorded music at your event.

13.1 COPYRIGHT

If you are having live or pre-recorded music (either a recording or music video) at your event, and that music is protected by copyright (as most music is), you will need to obtain a licence at least 72 hours prior to the event.

If there is live music only you will require a licence from the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA). Recorded music (either a recording or music video) is protected by two types of copyright so if you are using recorded music at your event you will need to obtain a licence from both APRA and the Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA).

For more information about APRA’s Event Licences go to www.apra.com.au/music-users or call 1300 852 388.

For more details about PPCA’s Licences go to www.ppca.com.au/licensing.htm or call (02) 8569 1111. 
                                                                                                                        
13.2 INSURANCE

You should ensure that performers have insurance to cover their activities while at your event. You should sight their insurance as well as seek professional advice about the insurance you need as the event organiser (see 6. Safety and security). Public liability insurance is required by a number of government agencies and is usually a condition of approval to hold an event. In most cases $20 million is the amount of cover required by the appropriate agency or agencies listed as ‘interested parties’ on the certificate issued. 

13.3 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

You have a duty of care in relation to the health and safety of performers at your event (also see 6. Safety and security).

During your risk assessment, identify any potential hazards for performers and take steps to minimise those risks (also see 6. Safety and security).

Remember also that performers may need facilities in which to change their clothes, do their make-up etc. 
                                                                                                                            

13.4 CONTRACTS

It is advisable to have a written contract with all performers at your event. You should seek professional legal advice about the contents of a performer’s contract (also see 7. Legal issues).

The website of the Arts Law Centre of Australia have low cost sample contracts for sale, free information on arts law and arts insurance, and can provide free legal advice—see www.artslaw.com.au

Event organisers should ensure arts workers are paid correct wages. The relevant union is the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance—see www.alliance.org.au