CHRISTMAS has come early for buskers in the Southern Grampians Shire, with the council waiving permit fees this summer as part of a plan to reinvigorate the Hamilton CBD and nearby townships.

Buskers will still need to apply for a permit, however, from this week until the end of summer they will not need to pay the permit fee, as the shire tries to encourage buskers to perform, play or sing until their hearts content.

Southern Grampians Shire Council mayor, Bruach Colliton said council hoped the decision would boost expenditure and visitation to the CBD, whilst also supporting the community and local businesses.

“The past two years have been incredibly tough for our businesses, and we are doing everything we can to deliver a much-needed boost by drawing more people into the city, and encouraging them to stay longer,” he said.

“Across the summer months, we are excited to be waiving permit fees for buskers in our town centres.

“We’re issuing the call out to all street performers, singers, musicians and choirs to help create some excitement and vibrancy and bring our streets back to life with music and entertainment.

“If you’ve ever thought about having a go at performing live, this is your opportunity.”

Mayor Colliton said he hoped this initiative would work in collaboration with the ‘Ignite the Spirit of Christmas’ campaign, to help locals get into the festive spirit.

"It's going to be wonderful to see our streets buzzing again, with so much happening to bring some joy to the community and importantly to help bring our communities together,” he said.

A Busking Permit is required for all street performers, with the application available online at sthgrampians.vic.gov.au/Page/Page.aspx?Page_Id=3016.