[1][2] Initially opened as Duck Ponds, the station was given its current name of Lara on 30 June 1875.

[1][2] When Lara station opened, it was the temporary terminus of the Geelong – Melbourne line.

[4][2] The loop siding is generally used by trains serving the Avalon Airshow, which terminate at Lara.

[4][2] In 1999, the station waiting room received an upgrade, including the installation of glass sliding doors.

[6] The Western standard gauge line to Adelaide runs immediately west of the station.