Families looking to keep the kids entertained without blowing the budget this winter have been handed a welcome reprieve, as the Allan Labor Government rolls out a suite of free and low-cost activities across Victoria.
At the heart of it is a simple offer with broad appeal: kids under 16 get in free to zoos across the state during school holidays, weekends and public holidays. Acting Premier Ben Carroll and Acting Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio marked the start of the initiative by visiting Werribee Open Range Zoo, now home to a herd of nine Asian elephants that have taken to their new surroundings with gusto.
The 21-hectare elephant sanctuary, backed by state government funding, has drawn more than 316,000 visitors since March—up 41 per cent on the same period last year. That’s an extra 92,000 people through the gates, lured in part by a new boardwalk and viewing platforms giving a close-up glimpse of the herd’s daily routine.
The move is part of a broader push to make school holidays more accessible for families feeling the pinch. From fishing in stocked lakes to exploring top-tier galleries and museums, the government is banking on culture and nature to ease cost-of-living pressure while offering enriching experiences.
The numbers help explain the strategy. Around 35,000 rainbow trout have been added to over 70 Victorian lakes, encouraging families to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, institutions like Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks and the Immigration Museum continue to offer free year-round entry for kids.
For those more inclined toward the arts, the Playbound Festival returns in 2025 with free and low-cost workshops and performances hosted by major venues including the State Library, ACMI and the NGV. Children can try everything from stop-motion animation to bark painting, with sessions led by artists and elders like Uncle Col Clark at the Koorie Heritage Trust.
In regional areas, the offer continues. Bendigo Art Gallery and Hamilton Gallery are running interactive programs, while Geelong Arts Centre will host a two-day opera workshop with Opera Australia. Whether it’s building in Tinkertown at Scienceworks or tracing the story of video games at ACMI, the idea is to create multiple entry points for families across the state.
The free zoo entry in particular is expected to be a strong drawcard. “School holidays are the perfect time for families to get out and enjoy free activities,” said Acting Premier Ben Carroll. “From exploring our amazing zoos to discovering our world-class museums, there’s something for everyone.”
His colleague, Lily D’Ambrosio, echoed the sentiment. “With free entry to our zoos, we’re making sure no young Victorian misses out – and helping families spend some quality time together.”
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks pointed to the deeper value of engagement in the arts. “Victoria is the cultural capital of Australia, and there’s no better way to enjoy the school holidays than exploring our museums and galleries or expressing your creativity at a free workshop.”
Local Member for Point Cook, Mathew Hilakari, underlined the dual benefit. “The Asian elephant herd have settled into their new home – bringing thousands more visitors to Werribee Open Range Zoo. That’s good for local jobs and local families.”
Beyond the attractions themselves, the wider program speaks to a theme the government is keen to emphasise—support for families where it’s most needed. The school holidays initiative ties into broader commitments including free public transport for children and teenagers starting January next year, and ongoing subsidies for school camps, sports and excursions.
At a time when household costs are high and school break activities can become a stress point, the message is clear: pack a snack, pick a spot, and leave your wallet mostly in your pocket. From elephants in Werribee to trout in Shepparton, the state has thrown open its doors. The only thing left is for families to show up.
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