Australians Outraged by Upcoming Entry Fee for Iconic Twelve Apostles

A new entry fee for the Twelve Apostles, a prominent natural attraction in Australia, is set to be implemented in April 2027, sparking widespread anger among the public.

Visitors will be required to pay the fee upon passing through the newly constructed Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre, which serves as the gateway to the iconic Great Ocean Road landmark. Access to the site will necessitate a booking starting October 16, when the visitor center officially opens.

"This is a joke," one commenter expressed, with another adding, "Soon you will be charged for lying on the grass and staring at the clouds in your own backyard."

While entry will remain free until April 2027, the requirement to make a booking from October 16 signifies a shift in accessibility. "Booking is the only way that you can come through the visitor centre," stated Victorian Minister for Rural and Regional Development Michaela Settle.

The Twelve Apostles will join other significant Australian tourist destinations, such as Cradle Mountain and Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade, in implementing entry fees.

Although the exact price has not yet been disclosed, Settle indicated it would be "in alignment with all of the great natural visitation spots around Australia."

Acting federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Catherine King suggested that the redevelopment would benefit the local economy and attract more visitors. "The natural wonder of the Twelve Apostles is a drawcard for millions of people and this new visitor centre will support sustainable tourism along Victoria's southwest coastline," King said. "The redevelopment is already playing an important part in the local economy and will encourage even more visitors to spend time in the region, boosting local jobs and businesses."

Residents identified as locals and Traditional Owners will be exempt from the fee, though the exact criteria for local identification is still being finalized. The $126 million visitor center includes extensive facilities, such as 950 car spaces, a cafe, a gallery, and a rooftop lookout.

However, Great Ocean Road Authority chair Libby Mears acknowledged the complexities in defining 'local,' noting, "Defining a local is a really good question, and what that looks like still being fine-tuned." Opposition Leader Jess Wilson also voiced criticism, stating, "We've had concerns about this for some time, but this is what happens when you have a Labor government mismanage the finances for a decade in this state."