Major Conservation Works Due to Start at Cape Otway Lightstation

One of Australia’s most significant maritime heritage places is entering an exciting new chapter, with major conservation works due to start at Cape Otway Lightstation.

Home to Australia’s oldest surviving mainland lighthouse, Cape Otway Lighthouse has stood watch over one of the world’s most dramatic coastlines since 1848. This significant conservation program represents an important investment in protecting the heritage values of the Lightstation, ensuring this iconic landmark and its stories can be enjoyed by future generations.

The conservation program will be delivered in stages over the coming year, with work extending across both the lighthouse and the surrounding heritage precinct.

Stage 1 – Conserving the Lighthouse

The first stage of the project focuses on essential conservation works to the lighthouse itself, with onsite works scheduled to commence in late September and expected to take approximately 12–16 weeks.

Specialist conservation works include major repairs to the lighthouse roof, conservation of the historic catwalk, balcony and balustrade, together with other essential works that will help protect this remarkable structure for generations to come.

To enable these works to be carried out safely, the lighthouse tower climb will remain temporarily unavailable throughout this stage. Scaffolding and protective sheeting will enclose the tower and lantern room while specialist contractors undertake this important work.

Visiting the Lightstation during Conservation works

While the lighthouse will look a little different during this period, visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness a major heritage conservation project in action. Additional interpretative panels will installed throughout the visitor journey, providing insights about the conservation project and the ongoing care of one of Australia’s most significant maritime places.

The heritage precinct will remain open throughout Stage 1 works at a reduced admission price. Visitors can continue to explore historic buildings, enjoy guided interpretation throughout the day, experience spectacular coastal scenery, discover more than 175 years of maritime history, and visit the Lightkeepers Café.

Our Lightstation Heritage Accommodation will also remain open during Phase 1, with stays from late September 2026 to January 2027 available to book through our website from Mon 31st August.

Stage 2 – Conserving the Heritage Precinct

The conservation program extends well beyond the lighthouse itself. Planning is already underway for the second stage of works, which will focus on conserving other significant heritage buildings and structures throughout the precinct.

This stage is expected to include major conservation works to the Lightkeepers’ Cottages, Telegraph Station, Old Workshop, Signal Flagpole and the WWII Radar Bunker, with works anticipated to commence early next year. Further details will be announced as planning progresses and timelines are confirmed.

As the timing of these works is still being finalised, accommodation bookings for 2027 are not yet available. We appreciate the patience and understanding of our visitors and tourism partners and look forward to confirming availability as soon as the works program is finalised.

Protecting Cape Otway’s Future

As custodians of Cape Otway Lightstation, the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is committed to conserving this nationally significant heritage place while ensuring it remains a destination where visitors can connect with Australia’s rich maritime history.

Conservation projects of this scale are rare, and we look forward to sharing the journey with our visitors. Follow along online and on social media for behind-the-scenes updates, stories from the conservation team and regular progress updates as this remarkable 177-year-old landmark is carefully preserved for future generations.