Visitors to one of Australia’s most famous natural attractions may soon have to pay to experience it.
The Victorian government is preparing to introduce an entry fee for the Twelve Apostles, the towering limestone formations located along the Great Ocean Road.
The announcement is expected on Monday and will also include plans for a booking system aimed at controlling visitor numbers and easing parking congestion during busy periods.
Under the proposed changes, local residents and members of the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation will be exempt from the fee.
Victorian Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the move is about ensuring the long-term protection of the popular tourist destination while allowing more people to visit.
“The Twelve Apostles attract more than two million visitors each year, while over six million people travel along the Great Ocean Road,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“We want even more people to enjoy this incredible place, but we also need to invest in its future and protect it for generations to come.
“It’s only fair that visitors contribute a small amount to help maintain this world-class destination.”
The proposal has also received support from the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, which said the fee would help cover the costs of operating and maintaining new visitor facilities.
In a statement, the authority said the funding would support upgrades to tourism infrastructure and environmental conservation across the region.
According to the state government, consultations with tourism operators, community groups and other stakeholders will begin on Monday to determine what the entry fee should be.
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