TWELVE APOSTLES PRECINCT REDEVELOPMENT MOVES FORWARD

Grimshaw Architects, in collaboration with ASPECT Studios, has been appointed by the Victorian Government to design the new Visitor Experience Centre, while Kane Constructions has secured the contract to build the $126 million development.

Through this appointment, the Grimshaw-led design team will work in partnership with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority to design the world-class redevelopment. The partnership with EMAC recognises Eastern Maar’s ongoing connection and intrinsic relationship with Country, in line with the Eastern Maar Country Plan and will ensure the Eastern Maar culture remains at the forefront of the redevelopment.

Andrew Perez, Managing Partner at Grimshaw, said “With the ambition to protect and enhance one of Victoria’s significant cultural and environmental regions, we’re delighted to continue working in partnership with the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, and in collaboration with our expert team, to design the new Visitor Experience Centre and help realise the vision for the Twelve Apostles Precinct.”

The Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment will deliver a world-class Visitor Experience Centre and tourism projects being delivered by the private sector and local council. Once complete, the Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment will change how visitors experience the region. It will provide streamlined access to nature’s greatest attractions, while protecting the environment and cultural history at this spectacular location.

The Visitor Experience Centre will provide a world-class gateway to the Shipwreck Coast and safe access to one of the most visited natural landmarks in Australia. The redevelopment includes an upgraded viewing platform, safer beach access at Gibson Steps, new access roads, expanded parking areas and accessible community facilities. The project will also fund water, electricity, and road infrastructure improvements. This will support local businesses and make local services more accessible.

A new Welcome Garden will celebrate the rich Biocultural values of the Eastern Maar community,while a garden rooftop lookout will provide breathatking views across the Southern Ocean. The design emphasises integration with the natural landscape while incorporating essential visitor amenities and improved pedestrian access throughout the precinct.

The project’s significance extends beyond tourism infrastructure, as the Great Ocean Road itself stands as the world’s longest war memorial, built by returned servicemen after World War I. The historic route, stretching 243km, faces mounting environmental challenges, with cliffside erosion occurring at 2cm a year.

Construction of the project, jointly backed by the Federal and Victorian governments, is due to early this year.