Yes you have to spend money however professional photos taken and if you spend anything you get 2 hours free parking. Easier than major shopping centres
From website:
To receive a FREE* '2-photo portrait pack', simply spend $20 in the Centre and present your receipt at the Santa set. Each child that visits Santa Claus will receive a gift too!
Terms and conditions apply. The '2-photo portrait pack' consists of 2 (two) free photos. The photos are 6"x8" (15cm x 20cm) each, valued at $27 in total. One '2-photo portrait pack' per family, per day. Additional items are available for purchase.
![[VIC] Two Free 6" x 8" Photos with Santa Valued at $27 with Minimum $20 Spending @ The District Docklands](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/13/420513.jpg?h=eb3bfd0a)

car park there is a nightmare. especially at night, you won't be able to validate for free tickets. most shops closed and restaurant said they cannot validate for free ticket as the quota was full.