# How to get pub gigs in Australia

Publisher: The Band Planned (the product provider)

Source: https://thebandplanned.com/guides/how-to-get-pub-gigs-in-australia

A guide to getting pub gigs in Australia—where to find venues that book live music, how to approach publicans and what Australian pubs expect from bands.

Australian pubs are the backbone of live music. Here's how to get your band booked in them.

## Why pub gigs matter in Australia

Australian pubs are the lifeblood of live music. From the corner pub with a weekly acoustic night to the dedicated live music rooms in hotels, pubs are where most gigging bands cut their teeth and build a following.

Pub gigs pay, they're regular and they build your reputation. If you can get into the rotation at a few good pubs, you'll have a steady stream of gigs.

## Find pubs that book live music

Not every pub books bands. Look for: pubs with a dedicated live music room or stage, pubs that advertise live music on their website or social media, pubs listed on local gig guides and music publications, and pubs in your genre's scene (rock pubs, acoustic bars, etc.).

In Australia, check your state's live music body—Live Music Australia, Music NSW, Music Victoria, Music SA—for venue directories and resources.

The Band Planned's Get Gigs feature searches for venues in your area automatically, including Australian pubs, and returns contact details so you can start outreach immediately.

## Understand what pubs want

Pubs book bands that draw a crowd. A publican's goal is to fill the room and sell drinks. If your band can bring 30-50 people on a Friday night, you're valuable to a pub.

Pubs prefer bands that are reliable, professional and easy to work with. Show up on time, don't be difficult about the PA and don't complain about the fee. Publicans talk to each other—a good reputation gets you more gigs.

## Approach the right person

Find out who books the music. It might be the publican, a venue manager or a dedicated booker. Check the pub's website for a booking contact, or ask at the bar.

Email is usually the best first contact. Keep it short, professional and specific—propose a date, mention your genre and link to your EPK. Don't walk in on a busy Friday night and ask to speak to the manager.

## Know the typical deal

Australian pub gigs typically pay one of three ways: a flat fee (e.g., $300-500 for a covers band), a door charge (e.g., $10-15 per person who comes in), or a percentage of the bar. Some pubs offer a combination.

For original bands, pub gigs often pay less—sometimes $100-200 or a door split. Covers and party bands command higher fees because they draw bigger crowds.

Don't expect to negotiate on your first gig. Prove you can draw a crowd, then ask for better terms next time.

## Follow up and stay in the rotation

After a good gig, follow up with the venue within a week. Thank them, mention the crowd response and propose a date for the next show. Pubs that like you will book you again—if you stay in touch.

Track your venue contacts and follow-up dates so you don't let relationships go cold. The Band Planned's Get Gigs feature tracks lead states and follow-up dates automatically.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do I need a PA to play pub gigs?

Some pubs have a house PA; others expect the band to bring one. Ask before you book. If you can supply your own PA, you're more attractive to venues that don't have one.

### What if the pub says "come in and play for exposure"?

Exposure doesn't pay the rehearsal room. Politely decline and focus on venues that pay. There are plenty of Australian pubs that pay bands—find them instead.

## Related reading

- https://thebandplanned.com/guides/how-to-find-venues-that-book-bands

- https://thebandplanned.com/guides/what-to-include-in-venue-booking-email

- https://thebandplanned.com/find-gigs-for-your-band

- https://thebandplanned.com/venue-outreach-for-bands

- https://thebandplanned.com/gig-management-software