- Published:
- Wednesday 7 October 2026
A stunning new visitor precinct at the Twelve Apostles is ready to provide a world-class experience to millions of people each year and boost Victoria’s record-breaking tourism sector.
The $126 million Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre, jointly funded by $88 million from the Albanese Government and $38 million from the Carroll Government, will unlock the region’s economic potential.
Delivered ahead of the busy summer period, the new precinct will provide an experience befitting the internationally renowned Twelve Apostles and Great Ocean Road, which attracts 7 million visitors annually.
The spectacular centre includes a 230-seat cafe, kiosk, gallery space, visitor information spaces and facilities, and a rooftop lookout. Surrounding the building are native gardens, gathering areas, paths to the coastline and car parking for more than 950 vehicles.
Reflecting the enduring connection of the region's Traditional Owners, 'Keerray Woorroong' is the name of both the Country and Language of the First Nations people of the area.
Visitors will be able to engage with Keerray Woorroong Culture through plinths featuring significant objects, a central skylight connecting to Sky Country, a Kooyang (short-finned eel) artwork woven through the landscaping and much more.
The precinct will play a major role in supporting regional businesses, the tourism sector and the state’s $49.5 billion visitor economy, which supports more than 320,000 jobs.
Hundreds of tradespeople and businesses helped deliver the project, showcasing the state’s skilled construction sector and providing apprenticeship opportunities. Almost 100 locals are now employed at the visitor centre, and local producers and businesses have been engaged to help service its operations.
Visitors will be able to experience the new precinct from 16 October, with a booking system now live, and free until April 2027. A fee for bookings will then be introduced, with all revenue directly helping to protect and improve the coast and parks of the Great Ocean Road for generations to come.
The Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment was delivered through a $676 million partnership between the Victorian and Australian governments and the City of Greater Geelong. The new visitor centre will be operated by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA).
Bookings to the Twelve Apostles are now required before arriving and to secure a car park. For further information visit: www.twelveapostles.org.au.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Catherine King MP:
“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.
“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.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Rural and Regional Development, Michaela Settle MP:
“This is a once-in-a-generation investment in the Great Ocean Road – creating local jobs, backing local businesses and building an experience worthy of one of the world’s great destinations.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Environment Jaclyn Symes:
“The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre means locals and visitors can safely and sustainably enjoy the 12 Apostles and its picturesque environment.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Housing, Building and Precincts Nick Staikos:
“Development Victoria is proud to have helped deliver this world-class visitor precinct by bringing together government, Traditional Owners, tourism and construction partners and applying our expertise in complex precinct delivery to create a lasting asset for the region.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism Natalie Suleyman MP:
"The Twelve Apostles draws visitors to Victoria from around the world and this new centre will be a huge boost for our visitor economy"
Quotes attributable to Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Senator Raff Ciccone:
“This project will boost local tourism in the seat of Wannon while respecting local cultural heritage through its design and development.
“Visitors to the new centre will enjoy new retail shops, dining and exhibition spaces, including a rooftop observation deck with panoramic views.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney MP:
“This amazing new centre means visitors young and old from Victoria and across the world can enjoy the 12 Apostles and its stunning surrounds for decades to come.”
Quotes attributable to Marcus Clarke, CEO Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation:
“Naming this centre 'Keerray Woorroong' is a small but powerful act of returning Language to the place it has always belonged.
“We hope this centre is just the beginning for many visitors — a moment that sparks genuine curiosity and a desire to learn more about Eastern Maar Culture, history and Country."