Melbourne buskers are set to cash in (literally) on the digital age with the introduction of new tap and go payment systems.
The technology, launched by online and mobile payment platform Alipay, will be piloted by 15-20 buskers over a four-six week period who will receive a portable device that lets passers-by tip even without cash.
Set payments are $2 or $5, however larger sums of money can be paid if desired.
In a world-first, Chinese visitors will have the same option through a smartphone payment method, as the Alipay app is used by more than 870 million people.
"Buskers are part of the social and cultural fabric of Melbourne and Alipay saw an opportunity to use our technology to help visitors show their appreciation," Alipay Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand, George Lawson, said.
"The program is a win-win; the 600,000 Chinese visitors arriving in Melbourne every year get greater access to the city’s culture, while buskers grow their audience and have a more practical way to accept funds."
The pilot phase will also see Alipay provide notifications and content on the app to promote buskers and help draw bigger crowds.
Chair of the City of Melbourne’s International Engagement portfolio, Councillor Philip Le Liu, has welcomed the pilot.
"The City of Melbourne works hard to engage with the international community to help promote Melbourne as a destination of choice for tourists, businesses and innovators," Le Liu said.
"With nearly 2,000 buskers on our city streets, it’s important we continue to support our busking culture and encourage new ways to help them engage with Melbourne’s international and interstate visitors."
It comes just months after London introduced a contactless payment scheme following two successful trials.
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