Victoria's state government has announced plans to charge visitors for access to the Twelve Apostles, a popular natural landmark along the Great Ocean Road. The fees will include parking charges and access to the recently constructed $126 million Visitor Centre, which serves as the main entry point for tourists seeking to view the iconic sea stacks. With approximately 2.2 million visitors annually, the government anticipates that this number could rise to 3 million by 2032, prompting concerns from local residents regarding overtourism and its impact on the area.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos emphasized that the introduction of these 'fair and reasonable' fees is intended to help alleviate crowding at this major tourist site while also safeguarding the surrounding environment. The move aligns Victoria’s management strategies with other well-known Australian tourist destinations, which have similarly adopted visitor charges to enhance sustainable tourism practices. The government argues that such measures are necessary to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Twelve Apostles for future generations.

However, the proposal has sparked debate among local communities and stakeholders about the potential commercialization of public spaces. Some locals fear that charging for access may alter the perception of natural wonders, turning them into mere commodities rather than cherished heritage sites. As discussions unfold, the balance between protecting the environment and maintaining public access to iconic attractions remains a crucial consideration for the ongoing management of Victoria's tourism.