This Just In: The Twelve Apostles' New $126 Million Visitor Centre Is Here — With the Scenery Soon Locked Behind an Entry Fee
The Twelve Apostles will soon start charging visitors to support a new multi-million visitor centre.
Visitors along Victoria's legendary Great Ocean Road planning to stop by the famous Twelve Apostles will soon need a card or cash ready — the coastal landmark is introducing a controversial entry fee for visitors in April 2027.
The Victorian government announced the decision in March, along with news of a new construction project — the $126 million Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre. Now, the venue is ready for visitors, with the new entry fee going towards the centre's upkeep, as well as funding ongoing maintenance and conservation efforts throughout the Great Ocean Road region.
Designed in consultation with the Eastern Maar, south-western Victoria's Traditional Owners, the new 3,300-square-metre visitor centre will showcase this famous coastline from the perspective of one of the world's oldest living cultures. That means interactive displays, artefacts and guided experiences, all designed to explore the deep history and geology of the place, and the people connected to Country.
Meanwhile, a new Welcome Garden shares Eastern Maar culture through native gardens and trails. At the same time, the dedicated Keerray Woorroong experience brings together audiovisual and static displays exploring millions of years of climate and geological history and the environment. And a new 230-seat cafe, kiosk, gallery space, and rooftop lookout will keep visitors occupied.
"From Eastern Maar culture and the natural environment to local food, regional stories and spectacular views across the Southern Ocean, we want visitors to leave with a deeper connection to this place as well as a desire to explore more of the Great Ocean Road," said Twelve Apostles Visitor Precinct General Manager Andre Smaniotto.
While visiting the Twelve Apostles remains free until April next year, visitors planning to see the sights will require a booking from Friday, October 16. Although you can book at the entrance gate, immediate access depends on capacity, so those embarking on a road trip are strongly advised to book ahead.
When the fee is eventually introduced, local residents and Traditional Owners will be exempt from paying. With the Twelve Apostles attracting upwards of 7000 visitors per day, concerns about overcrowding in recent years have led to the introduction of the fee and booking system.
Yet not everyone is happy about the change. Port Campbell Community Group secretary Marion Manifold told the ABC that public land should not be commercialised, while expressing concern about the government's long-term aim to increase visitor numbers to upwards of six million.
The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre will open on Friday, October 16, with a free booking recommended. Head to the website for more information.
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Images: Supplied.
