Tourists along the Great Ocean Road will soon be hit with an entry fee to see the legendary Twelve Apostles. This natural formation attracts 2 million visitors a year, and the controversial fee will be used to cover the costs of maintaining this beloved coastal attraction. The exact cost hasn’t been determined yet, and will be decided after a consultation with key stakeholders, including local government, tour operators and local communities. As well as the entry fee, there will also be a booking system to manage crowding. The new system will coincide with the opening of the new Twelve Apostles Visitors Experience Centre, which is set to open in late 2026.
Twelve Apostles entry fee
The Great Ocean Road receives a whopping 6 million visitors a year, and a huge chunk of them stop to see the Twelve Apostles. This landmark received 2.2 million sightseers in 2024, and this number is expected to grow to 3 million by 2032. 30 per cent of international tourists visit the Twelve Apostles, making it a huge drawcard for Victoria.
The cost of entry will be used to help operate and maintain facilities around this popular landmark, as well as provide an additional source of revenue for ongoing works along the Great Ocean Road. The funds will be collected by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA), who will put the money towards upgrading beach access, repairing landmarks, delivering conservation projects, improving caravan parks and campgrounds and repairing or upgrading other visitor facilities, such as trails, lookouts, BBQs and walkways.
“It’s only fair that visitors to the region pay a small fee to visit this world-class destination so that we can maintain it for future generations,” said Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos.
The exact cost hasn’t been determined yet, but in September last year, Corangamite Shire Chief Executive David Rae said that $10 or $20 might be a reasonable ask.
“As demonstrated at other high-volume tourist sites, a well-executed model can support improved visitor experience through infrastructure upgrades, better services and year-round activation,” said Rae.
While the specifics haven’t been announced yet, locals and members of the Eastern Maar Indigenous community will not have to pay to see the Twelve Apostles.
Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre and bookings
GORCAPA will also operate the upcoming Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre. This space is the centrepiece of the $126 million Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment project. It will feature immersive interpretive experiences, outdoor spaces, retail, food and beverage offerings and even a rooftop garden. There will also be a Welcome Garden, as well as integrated car and bus parking.
Meanwhile, the booking system will be used to manage overcrowding. With timed arrivals, visitors will be able to have space for parking and more space on the viewing platform and walkways. Less crowds will also help protect the fragile coastal environment.
More about the Twelve Apostles
Located 3 hours away from Melbourne, or 4.5 hours if you take the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles is a stunning formation of towering limestone stacks. These rugged formations began as limestone cliffs on the mainland 10 to 20 million years ago, and were shaped by persistent waves and winds to create the majestic stacks that you see today. Contrary to the name, there were never twelve stacks. This natural attraction had just nine structures at the beginning of the 21st century, and there are now only seven for you to admire. The Twelve Apostles are particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.