Visitors to the Twelve Apostles along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road will soon pay a new entry fee as part of the state government’s plan to upgrade facilities and manage the site’s soaring visitor numbers.
The Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre, set to open at the end of 2026, will be the focus of the proposed fee, with the final cost to be determined after consultation with local councils, traditional owners, and businesses. Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos confirmed locals and the Eastern Maar community will not be charged.
“It’s only fair that visitors contribute to maintaining this world-class destination for future generations,” Dimopoulos said. Funds collected will support beach access improvements, upgraded visitor facilities, and preservation of historic landmarks.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson criticised the move as a cash grab, arguing that such an iconic site should remain freely accessible. Meanwhile, Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism says the fee and a new booking system are needed to manage more than 2 million visitors to the Twelve Apostles each year and to ensure a smooth experience.
Residents also voiced concerns about accessibility and equitable use. Kylie Treble of the Port Campbell Progress Group said: “There still needs to be opportunities for people who can’t afford the fee to experience the Twelve Apostles.”
The Victorian government points out that visitor fees are already common at other iconic Australian destinations, including Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Kosciuszko National Park, and Wineglass Bay Lookout.
With 6 million tourists visiting the Great Ocean Road annually, the new fee aims to balance world-class visitor experiences with long-term conservation.
