Locals and heritage groups have welcomed news Fort Queenscliff will not be sold off.
The federal government had announced plans to sell this historic facility and other defence sites across the country, including the Point Cook RAAF Base.
However, that has been overturned, with the Fort to remain in Commonwealth hands.
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Defence Minister and member for Corio Richard Marles says open the Fort to the public will be vital to keep it maintained.
Queenscliff Maritime Museum says the site is central to the maritime, military and civic story of the Bellarine town and the Heads.
Geelong-based Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson described the move as a win for locals.
