End of an era: Victoria's most-visited natural wonder to become a paid attraction

Visitors to the Twelve Apostles will be required to pay an entry fee under a new Victorian Government plan to fund the protection of the Great Ocean Road coastline.

The fee would apply at the new Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre, due to open in late 2026.

The exact price of the fee has not yet been determined and will be set following consultation with local councils, tourism operators and traditional owners.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said locals and members of the Eastern Maar community would be exempt from the charge.

"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," Mr Dimopoulos said.

Funds raised through the booking system would be collected by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority and used to support upgrades to beach access points, visitor facilities and the maintenance of historic landmarks along the coast.

Great Ocean Road Tourism chair Andrew Jeffers told Explore that introducing a booking system and entry fee would help manage visitor numbers at the popular site.

"The introduction of a booking system and entry fees is a positive step," Mr Jeffers said.

"Managing visitation at the Twelve Apostles will help protect the landscape, support local communities, reduce congestion and ensure visitors have a better experience when they come to see one of Australia's most iconic natural attractions."

Mr Jeffers said many popular destinations around the world already manage visitor numbers through booking systems and fees.