Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail

Project background

We are proud to be partnered with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Parks Victoria and Traditional Owners in delivering an iconic, world-class new coastal trail along the Great Ocean Road. 

Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail, woman walking on walking trail

Walking on Gadubanud Country, Eastern Maar Nation

The idea of creating a coastal trail along the Great Ocean Road, joining all the various walking trails into one great walk, has been around for many years.

A feasibility study in 2019 assessed the potential of providing a walking trail that would link the Surf Coast Walk (that commences in Torquay) to the Great Ocean Walk (finishing at the Twelve Apostles). The findings included a significant economic benefit if visitors were given a reason to stay an extra night in the region.

Designing and planning a world-class walking experience with proposed features such as suspension bridges to provide amazing views and experiences is currently underway. We're working with DELWP, Parks Victoria and partners Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation to plan the trail according to the trail’s guiding principles. These include ensuring the trail respects and promotes the rich cultural heritage and natural values of the area and utilises existing tracks where possible.

The Victorian Government has provided $25.5 million to plan the entire trail (Fairhaven to Skenes Creek) and build the trail from Fairhaven to Grey River. The Australian Government is contributing $350,000 for planning and feasibility studies (Cumberland to Skenes Creek) through the Geelong City Deal. 

Economic benefits of the trail

The economic benefits of the trail for the Great Ocean Road Region have been independently forecast. An update has also been completed to take into account the impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The study, and the update, show the trail will provide strong economic benefits for Victoria. By encouraging more frequent and longer stays, the trail will also provide a lasting benefit for local communities and businesses across the Great Ocean Road Region.

Visitor numbers are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2023 (interstate) and 2025 (international).

Future trail management and land management

Most of the planned trail will be in the Great Otway National Park (Crown land) currently managed by Parks Victoria. The ongoing management of some or all of the trail will transfer to the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority in the future. 

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Further information

If you have further comments or questions about the project, please speak with our team at info@greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au or call 1300 736 533.