General News
13 March, 2026
Calls to keep info centre free for locals
WARRNAMBOOL City Council has supported a ‘modest fee’ to visit the 12 Apostles information centre – but believes access should be free for Warrnambool residents and Traditional Owners.
In a statement issued earlier this week, mayor Cr Ben Blain said Warrnambool people considered the world-renowned stretch of coastline and its unique geology part of their recreational space.
“It’s only an hour away from Warrnambool and many residents would visit the 12 Apostles on a regular basis and also recommend visits to friends and family,” Cr Blain said.
“We believe that residents in municipalities that support marketing of the 12 Apostles through Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism (GORRT) should have free access.
“Council does support the introduction of a modest fee to visit the 12 Apostles information centre.
“It’s something that’s already in place for other special natural places including Uluru and the Kosciuszko National Park.”
Cr Blain believes the “reality” is that infrastructure and a management system are needed in order to cope with the enormous number of visitors to the 12 Apostles.
“Each year more than two million people visit the site and without fit-for-purpose facilities the 12 Apostles could be loved to death,” he said.
“It is important that funds raised through the visitor fee are invested into looking after the 12 Apostles and on a marketing effort that encourages people to stay for longer in the south west and to explore the other attractions within the wider region.
“But let’s keep it free for Warrnambool residents and Traditional Owners.”
