Great Ocean Road Regional Trails Strategy launched

A NEW Victorian government strategy aims to help the Great Ocean Road to become one of Australia’s best nature-based tourism destinations to boost eco-tourism, investment and support local jobs and business over the next 10 years.

Last week, Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos launched the Great Ocean Road Regional Trails Strategy 2025-35, a plan to enhance the region’s network of trails.

Home to some of Victoria’s most spectacular natural and cultural assets from the cascading waterfalls of the Otways to the rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Walk, the Great Ocean Road attracts millions of visitors each year.

The new strategy will support the local community and tourism business to encourage visitors to slow down, stay longer, and connect more deeply with nature, culture and community across the region.

For the first time, the strategy brings together Traditional Owners, local councils, state agencies, tourism bodies and community groups to deliver a shared vision for the future of trails along the Great Ocean Road.

It identifies 12 trail networks – including the Surf Coast Walk, Forrest and Anglesea mountain bike networks, the Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail, and scenic rail trails such as Camperdown to Timboon and Port Fairy to Warrnambool – offering something for everyone.

At the moment, many visitors drive the Great Ocean Road in a day, spending little time and money in the region.

By improving and promoting the trails, the strategy will encourages overnight and multi-day stays, bringing economic benefits to towns like Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, and beyond.

“The Strategy provides a clear roadmap to realise the Great Ocean Road region’s potential as a world-class trails destination, delivering benefits for local business and supporting jobs throughout the region,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

“Whether it’s short waterfall walks, multi-day hikes, scenic rail trails like Port Fairy to Warrnambool and Camperdown to Timboon, or mountain biking adventures in Forrest, the Great Ocean Road offers something for everyone.”

Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney also praised the strategy.

“A well-connected trail network does more than guide people from point A to B — it draws visitors into our towns, supports local businesses, and helps keep jobs in the region,” she said.

“It means more people discovering what we locals already know — just how special this part of Victoria really is.

“I’m looking forward to seeing even more families, walkers, cyclists and adventurers out enjoying our stunning coast and countryside. This strategy is a big win for communities and tourism right along the Great Ocean Road.”

Development of the Strategy has been supported by the Victorian government as part of the Great Ocean Road Visitor Experience Uplift funding.

For more information and to read the strategy, head to greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au