Wollongong city is introducing a screening system for buskers, in a bid to draw better talent and more bustling crowds to Crown Street and surrounds.
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Under the Live Sites in the City program, performers will upload a short video audition in order to win time at one of four plum busking spots in the mall and on Globe Lane.
Performances will be spruiked by Destination Wollongong via social media and signs positioned near the busking sites.
"We'd like to up the ante a bit and make sure we're showcasing the best talent that Wollongong has to offer," Destination Wollongong's Tabitha Galvin said.
"As much as we love the same old faces, we would like to get more new talent happening in the city centre."
Among the program objectives is to expand busking acts beyond singers and musicians to include, for instance, more circus-style street performers.
Wollongong City Council economic development manager Mark Grimson said the program was also intended to contribute to a better atmosphere, and serve as a reminder that the city centre remained open for business while Crown Street Mall was being refurbished.
Guitarist Sam James said he hoped the program would generate new support for area musicians.
Mr James and his brother Adrian, both members of the band Atticus, regularly busk in the city, usually collecting $80-$100 over two hours.
"Wollongong isn't the most live music-oriented place, so anything that would create a culture change towards appreciating live music would be great," Mr James said.
The current busking system, where performers apply but are not screened, will stay, however the four spots will be reserved for participants in the new program.
Interested performers can register their interest by emailing a video clip to citycentre@wollongong.nsw.gov.au or by uploading it to the Crown Street Mall Wollongong Facebook page.
