Visitors to Australia’s iconic Twelve Apostles in Victoria State will need a booking from 16 October 2026, when a precinct redevelopment costing A$126 million (US$87.6 million) opens with a new visitor centre, Eastern Maar cultural experiences and a rooftop lookout.
Bookings are currently free, with a fee to be introduced in April 2027. The fee amount has not yet been announced, and revenue will be reinvested into coastal protection, conservation and visitor-experience improvements across the Great Ocean Road’s coast and parks.
Visitors without a booking will still be able to secure one at the entrance gate, although entry may be delayed if parking reaches capacity. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
New visitor centre
The new 3,300 sqm Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre will give travellers more to discover at the Twelve Apostles, with experiences designed to deepen their understanding of the coast and inspire them to explore more of the Great Ocean Road.
Operating 365 days a year, the facility combines cultural interpretation, immersive exhibitions, local food and beverage offerings, regional visitor information and guided experiences.
A Welcome Garden will share Eastern Maar culture via native planting and trails, while audiovisual displays will trace the region’s geological and climate history. The Great Ocean Lookout rooftop garden and observation area will also offer views across the Southern Ocean.
Guided experiences by Visitor Ambassadors, alongside regional information and suggested itineraries, will help travellers make the most of their visit.
A 230-seat café and garden-side kiosk will showcase regional food and drink, with indoor and outdoor dining giving visitors more time to enjoy the setting.
Planning a visit
Visitors can book through twelveapostles.org.au. Those arriving without a reservation can make one at the entrance gate, but may have to wait if parking has reached capacity. Advance bookings are strongly recommended.
The visitor centre will open daily from 8:00am–8:00pm during daylight saving and 9:00am–5:00pm during standard time. Access to nearby Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps will remain unchanged.