The Victorian government is set to announce an entry fee for tourists visiting the iconic Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, a site renowned for its stunning limestone stacks. Scheduled to coincide with the opening of the new $126 million Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre at the end of 2026, this fee is part of the government’s strategy to enhance visitor management and support local infrastructure. Erosion has reduced the twelve original stacks to seven, emphasizing the need for sustainable tourism practices.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos highlighted that the collected fees will be used for various improvements, including better beach access and upgraded visitor facilities, ensuring the preservation of these historic landmarks for future generations. The exact cost of entry is yet to be determined, with consultations ongoing to involve stakeholders in the decision-making process. Furthermore, local residents and members of the Eastern Maar Indigenous community will be exempt from the fee, showcasing a commitment to diversity and local interaction.

In addition to the fee, a new visitor booking system will be implemented to control the number of tourists and streamline parking availability during busy periods. With more than two million visitors each year, the government is taking necessary steps to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability and community needs.