Great Ocean Road Region Strategy

The region

Victoria has one of the most publicly accessible coasts in the world. The Great Ocean Road Region is Victoria's most popular visitor destination outside Melbourne.

The region, stretching from Torquay to Warrnambool, is a place of infinite diversity, from exquisite coastal scenery, to rugged mountain ranges, productive farmland, thriving country towns and rainforests.

These attractions make the region a popular visitor destination, while the seaside lifestyle is attracting more full-time residents. Increased population brings significant benefits and challenges, including placing additional pressures on the region.

The strategy

Released in 2004, the Great Ocean Road Region Strategy was prepared to manage land use and transport growth demands for the following 20 years.

It provides direction for the State Government, local councils, the community, businesses and other government agencies to plan for the region's future, set priorities and make decisions. It was informed and influenced by the local community and others with a stake in the region’s future.

The strategy’s four key directions are:

• protect the landscape and care for the environment
• manage the growth of towns
• improve the management of access and transport
• encourage sustainable tourism and resource use.

It builds on existing work, including the Victorian Coastal Strategy, and regional catchment strategies.