The complexity of event organisation means there may be legal issues to address before, during and after the event. It is important that you seek professional legal advice before you begin planning for your event.

Some matters that may require legal advice are:

• contracts with:
    -staff
    -volunteers
    -suppliers
    -performers
    -sponsors
    -contractors
    -venues
    -any other relevant parties.
• use of intellectual property including copyright material (also see Australasian
Performing Right Association and Phonographic Performance Company of Australia
in 4. Who should you talk to? and 13. Music and performers)
• conduct of revenue-raising activities (also see 6. Safety and securityand 14. Fundraising)
• necessary insurance (also see 6. Safety and security)
• wages and other employee entitlements e.g. correct wages must be paid to all staff including performers, as well as superannuation and other entitlements that might arise in relation to a particular engagement. The relevant union for arts workers is the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance—see www.alliance.org.au
• taxation issues, including GST where applicable
• need for obtaining relevant licenses and approvals for the event e.g. planning
approval, liquor licence etc.
• compliance with other applicable laws.