THE Federal Government is investing almost $60 million in the Twelve Apostles/Great Ocean Road region.
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Prime Minister Scott Morrison will make his first visit to the region today to announce the cash injection, with Member for Wannon Dan Tehan saying it was “an absolute game changer”.
“It’s the biggest investment in tourist infrastructure for the south-west for decades, I would say ever,” he said.
“It means the two million tourists who visit the Twelve Apostles annually will now be able stop and explore the region.
“The investment will bring huge economic benefits including a huge growth in jobs.”
Mr Tehan said the investment was long overdue.
“This has been an area where we have seen under investment for years,” he said.
“It’s taken a lot of work from a lot of people to ensure we have been able to get this done.
“The input from local government has been crucial. The Corangamite Shire has been a very strong advocate.”
The education minister said having such a strong case to push to colleagues had led to a terrific outcome for all involved.
“It’s been a couple of years in the making,” he said.
It’s another coup for Mr Tehan who had been instrumental in helping secure the future of the Portland smelter and the Deakin University Warrnambool campus, while also getting $100 million for the Warrnambool to Melbourne rail line.
“I’m delighted we have been able to achieve this investment,” he said.
The Australian Government will invest $58.15 million in a number of projects.
That includes $20.2 million to construct the Glenample Visitor Experience Centre and adjoining car park, plus $3.4 million for a refurbishment of the Glenample homestead.
Other works include:
- $2.3 million for land acquisition, revegetation and demolition works;
- $1.9 million for a Twelve Apostles amphitheatre and viewing deck, improving access and allowing for all-weather views;
- $1.7 million towards beach access at Gibson’s Steps, which will include a new iconic tunnel and beach stairs experience with controlled access to the beach during severe conditions;
- $1.4 million for the construction of a Twelve Apostles viewing hide and emergency shelter;
- $1.4 million for the construction of an interim car park at the Twelve Apostles
- $1.1 million to refurbish the existing Twelve Apostles Information Centre to become new visitor pod with bicycle share point, transport and shelter;
- $500,000 for the construction of a park and ride transport hub and park entry access road;
- $500,000 for the construction of a visitor pod at Gibson’s Steps;
- $200,000 for the provision of picnic facilities at the Dam area;
- $100,000 for the construction of a local permit car park
- $100,000 for the provision of interpretive visitor information;
- $23.35 million towards a business attraction fund, which will support activation of private investment opportunities through the provision of services such as water and sewerage and infrastructure upgrades for roads, power and communications.
