Treasury Building, Brisbane: History and How to See It
Built in stages between 1886 and 1928, the Treasury Building in Brisbane is a solid sandstone record of Queensland's late 19th-century boom. It takes up an entire city block and was built to house the heart of the colonial government, including the Premier and cabinet ministers. Its sandstone exterior is still one of the state's finest examples of classical civic architecture, anchoring the top of Queen Street. It's one of the Brisbane stops in our Hidden Gems Queensland guide.
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Treasury Building History and Architecture
Designed by architect John James Clark in the Italian Renaissance style, the building was made to project authority and permanence. Heavy sandstone masonry, deep colonnades and fine classical detail define the exterior. It was built in three major stages as the public service grew, around a large internal courtyard that brought natural light and air into the offices long before air conditioning. It's a fine example of the monumental public works of the era.
Can You Visit the Treasury Building?
The Treasury Building fills the block bounded by Queen, George, William and Elizabeth streets in the Brisbane CBD. For years it was the Treasury Casino, which closed in 2024. Griffith University has since bought the building and is restoring it as a city campus, expected to open in 2027, so the interior is currently a construction site and closed to visitors.
The facades are still easy to admire from the surrounding public footpaths and the neighbouring Queens Gardens. Keep to the footpaths and stay clear of the work zones.
Treasury Building Brisbane FAQs
Where is the Treasury Building in Brisbane?
It takes up the whole block bounded by Queen, George, William and Elizabeth streets, at the top of Queen Street in the CBD.
Is the Treasury Building open to the public?
Not right now. The former casino closed in 2024 and the building is being restored as a Griffith University campus, expected to open in 2027. You can still view the exterior from the footpaths and Queens Gardens.
Who designed the Treasury Building?
Architect John James Clark, in the Italian Renaissance style. It was built in stages between 1886 and 1928.
For more of Brisbane's heritage buildings and hidden corners, grab a copy of our Hidden Gems Queensland guide.
