There are many ways to promote events online in Australia with many of them FREE.
The list below are Australian websites offering free event advertising.
Some request link backs, a thank you on your website or Facebook page while others simply require completion of an online event application form which takes a few minutes.
Australian Networks (free advertising)
- OnlyAustralia (you are here)
- OnlyMelbourne (Melbourne events)
- WeekendNotes
- Facebook Events
- Eventful
- EventFinda
Advertising media
- radio
- television
- newspapers
- magazines
- web / social media / apps
- signage
Other ways to advertise your event for FREE
- Word of mouth
Start with family, friends, customers, members and supporters through meetings, telephone, newsletter, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Encourage them to spread the word, tell their friends and friends of friends. Word of mouth is still one of the most powerful selling tools because it comes with a reliable, credible endorsement. - Email
Using your mailing list, email to let them know about the event (where, when, why, cost, RSVP etc). - Email signature
Add a paragraph to all of your outgoing emails about the event. - Forward
In your email to supporters, ask them to forward your message to people they think would be interested in your event. - Posters
Create a flyer and stick it up copies wherever regulations allow. Areas with lots of pedestrian traffic or car stops are best. Shopping centres, library, shop windows, laundramat and remember to take your posters down after the event. - Balloons
On the day, add balloons and flags around signs to really catch peoples attention. - Community
Not for profit community events can approach agencies, local business, associations, schools, local council for assistance and support. - News – local newspapers
It never hurts to try your local newspaper: get in early, create a press release, include pictures. It should be concise, newsworthy, of interest to the public and not sounding like an advert. - News – major papers
It’s much harder to get into the metro papers but not impossible. Think about who/what’s in your event that may be of interest. - News – radio
Send your media release to local radio stations as well – to the news desk and to program hosts. - News – TV
News reports on TV are about events that have already happened so your press release should be aimed at getting reporters along this year which may lead to some publicity for next year. - Website
Make sure it stands out on your own website and social media pages
Marketing Resources
- 25 ways to advertise your event for FREE – ourcommunity.com.au – 2014
- Event Advertising – adage.com | Published on September 15, 2003
- Effective event advertising – geelongaustralia.com.au | last updated: Tuesday, 10 October 2017
- How to Market an Event: 50 Event Marketing Tips – orbitmedia.com | Excellent 2013
- 16 Ways to Use Social Media to Promote Your Event – socialmediaexaminer.com | March 3, 2015