Brisbane Treasury: A Historical and Cultural Landmark
1886-2023
1886-2023
The Brisbane Treasury stands as one of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks, celebrated for its historical significance and its evolution from a center of government to a vibrant hub for entertainment and education. Initially known as the Treasury Building, this grand heritage-listed site has played multiple pivotal roles in Queensland’s history. Construction of the Treasury Building began in 1886 and continued in three main stages until 1928. The project was launched following an 1883 design competition, which was won by Melbourne architect John James Clark. Originally called the "New Public Offices," the building was designed to house a range of government departments and administrative functions, symbolizing Queensland’s self-rule and growing civic pride. Its designation as a heritage site in 1992 underlines its enduring value within the state's architectural and political story.
The Brisbane Treasury’s design exemplifies the Italian Renaissance style, specifically the neo-Italianate trend popular in the late 19th century and is credited to John James Clark—one of Queensland’s prominent colonial architects. Key architectural features include symmetrical facades with arcades inspired by 16th-century Italian classical architecture, central towers on each facade, slightly elevated and crowned with pediments, protruding pavilions marking the corners, providing a monumental appearance, a rusticated basement level, and occupation of an entire city block bordered by Queen, George, Elizabeth, and William Streets, with the main address on Queen Street. These design elements make the Treasury Building a standout piece of Brisbane’s built environment. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Treasury Building was more than just a center for bureaucracy; it served as a focal point for key public events, patriotic celebrations, and demonstrations of civic pride. Its prominent location near Queens Gardens and opposite Parliament House reinforced its role as a symbol of governance and Queensland identity.
By the late 20th century, the building had outlived its original governmental role. In 1995, the Brisbane Treasury underwent a major transformation into the Treasury Casino and Hotel, becoming a flagship entertainment complex. Operated by The Star Entertainment Group, the casino has since contributed significantly to the local economy through tourism, hospitality, and employment, while also preserving much of the historic structure’s exterior and key interior spaces. In a major shift, Griffith University acquired the Treasury Building with plans to repurpose it as an inner-city teaching campus, expected to open in 2024. This development aims to ensure the preservation of the building’s heritage, while infusing it with a new community-oriented purpose—expanding educational access and bringing new life to the historic site.
The Brisbane Treasury is centrally located at North Quay, bordered by Queen, George, Elizabeth, and William Streets, right across from Queens Gardens, making it highly accessible for both tourists and locals. The building’s grand exterior, intricate stonework, and majestic arcades offer excellent photo opportunities and a tangible connection to Brisbane’s past. The casino continues to host a range of events and exhibits, while historical tours and nearby heritage plaques provide insights into its storied history. Visitors are advised to explore not just the gaming and hospitality offerings, but also to appreciate the building’s architectural details and its evolving role in Brisbane. The Brisbane Treasury embodies the evolution of Queensland itself—from its foundational days of self-rule, through periods of public celebration, to its current status as a cornerstone of both entertainment and education. Its remarkable journey, architectural grandeur, and continued adaptation underscore its central role in Brisbane’s heritage. For those interested in history, architecture, or contemporary culture, the Brisbane Treasury remains a must-visit landmark and a symbol of Queensland’s dynamic heritage.
Contact our sponsors by clicking their logo above.
Stay tuned for updates about the 2025 competition. Follow us on Facebook for announcements and photos!
Photos from the event will be displayed here soon.