Split Point Lighthouse precinct traffic management changes
We are introducing some traffic management changes in the Split Point Lighthouse precinct, Aireys Inlet.
We recognise that larger buses in the area create safety and amenity issues and we will be trialling a change to parking controls to discourage them in the precinct.
The precinct is a popular stopping point for tour bus operators.
New measures are being introduced as a trial in the first half of 2026, seeking to improve safety for residents, road users and pedestrians, provide clarity for bus drivers, and support Council Rangers' and Victoria Police monitoring of parking in the precinct.
Our proposed approach is to align with existing Council resolutions, trialling the following in 2026:
- Signage in the precinct to prevent the stopping and parking of vehicles over 6m.
- Continuing attendance by Council’s Rangers who will be aided by clear enforceable controls.
- Maintaining the existing drop-off zone opposite the skate park.
Installation of new signage will be necessary to enable Rangers to issue parking infringement notices. Wherever possible, signs will be attached to existing signposts to minimise impact to visual amenity in the area.
Timelines for the implementation of these new measures might be influenced by lead times for signage production as well as considerations regarding cultural heritage management.
Residents can be assured Council is not seeking to seal any streets or remove green space within the precinct.
We will trial the measures across the next 12 months and continue working with partner organisations on longer-term strategies to manage the impacts of visitation.
The trial will help inform future planning.
Rangers will continue to monitor the area as part of regular patrols, attending as much as operating capacity and competing demands across the shire allow.
Traffic congestion and bus parking in the precinct has been a long-standing issue and we hope community members and tour operators can work with us while the changes are introduced.
Why is bus parking a problem in this area of Aireys Inlet?
Aireys Inlet is an appealing stopover for tour buses making their way between Melbourne and the 12 Apostles via the Great Ocean Road, given its distance from Melbourne, scenic attributes and provision of public toilets.
Historic Split Point Lighthouse is a major attraction.
The precinct has no signed restriction zones at present and parking is random, impedes traffic and brings safety concerns, generally peaking with high bus numbers about 10.30am and 5pm each day.
How will these measures help ease problems?
Preventing vehicles longer than 6m from stopping and parking will exclude coaches and other larger buses from the precinct, reduce traffic volume and congestion and improve safety for residents and visitors.
The new measures will provide greater clarity for bus drivers, and support Council Rangers and Victoria Police in monitoring parking in the busy area.
At the moment there are no signed restriction zones within the precinct. This means that only Victoria Police have the authority to issue parking infringement notices. The introduction of restriction signage will allow Council Rangers to enforce parking rules and issue parking infringement notices within the precinct.
Where will the signs be placed?
We will publish a map and summary of the trial changes on this webpage once they have been approved and finalised.
When will the changes be introduced?
We are endeavouring to have the new measures in place around Easter 2026, subject to practical considerations.
Timing may be influenced by factors such as signage production lead times, and cultural heritage management requirements.
Who has Council consulted?
Council has taken into account community feedback and worked on the issue in collaboration with:
- Victoria Police
- Department of Transport and Planning
- Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority
- Parks Victoria
- Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism
- Aireys Inlet District Association.
Will there be restrictions on size of parking and no stopping signs?
All signs will be sized according to Australian Standards.
Why doesn't Council just ban buses from the precinct?
Council does not have the authority to ban buses from the precinct. That authority rests with the Department of Transport and Planning.