\n<\/p>\n
SINGAPORE \u2013 Businesses in Singapore\u2019s nightlife scene should engage creative freelancers including performers fairly and respectfully, especially in matters related to hiring and payment, said two bodies working with and representing freelance and self\u2011employed creative professionals on May 21.<\/p>\n
The welfare and interests of freelance creative professionals, including performing artistes, have come under the scope of the Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (VICPA) since January 2026, it said with the Singapore Nightlife Business Association (SNBA) in a joint statement.<\/p>\n
In response to queries, VICPA told The Straits Times that several recurring concerns have surfaced based on feedback and anecdotal experiences from freelance performers.<\/p>\n
Among the terms both bodies are pressing for are clear payment terms, transparent scope and deliverables, and a clear cancellation policy.<\/p>\n
These are all in line with the Tripartite Standard on Contracting with Self-Employed Persons set up by Singapore\u2019s Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices.<\/p>\n
Where payments are due, terms should be stated and agreed upon before work begins. Payments should be made within 30 days of the invoice date, said VICPA and SNBA.<\/p>\n
Some freelance artistes have shared that payments may be delayed up to 90 days, VICPA said, adding that a 30-day window should become an industry norm that would provide greater certainty for freelancers.<\/p>\n
Contracts should also clearly outline the scope of expected work and deliverables to avoid misunderstandings and disputes.<\/p>\n
Written contracts setting out key engagement terms are still not consistently practised across the industry, VICPA said.<\/p>\n
These fair engagement practices for freelance artistes and creative professionals aim to promote greater trust and accountability across Singapore\u2019s nightlife and entertainment industry, said SNBA president Danny Loong.<\/p>\n
Working with SNBA to protect the interests of creative freelancers and businesses in the nightlife sector means both parties can work together with greater clarity and confidence, said VICPA\u2019s executive secretary Jagathishwaran Rajo.<\/p>\n
VICPA is also ready to support creative freelancers in the event of a dispute.<\/p>\n
The group called on creative freelancers who encounter issues related to contracts or payment disputes to approach VICPA for mediation support.<\/p>\n
According to VICPA, freelance artistes have expressed concerns about unclear cancellation agreements, including gigs cancelled at short notice on the same day of the engagement, without deposits or partial compensation.<\/p>\n
Greater clarity and reasonable notice periods would provide more certainty for both businesses and performers, it added.<\/p>\n
VICPA was established in 2021 as an affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). It supports the growth of local freelance professionals and fair hiring practices.<\/p>\n
The body\u2019s move to include freelance performers under its purview was taken in line with NTUC\u2019s ongoing efforts to support more worker segments.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n