Whilst founded in 1909 by the Queensland Parliament it wasn’t until 1911 that teaching started in the old Government house in George Street Brisbane. Construction began at St Lucia in 1939 with the completion of the Forgan Smith building but due to war and finances was not completed until 1979. This University is one of 6 sandstone built in each State of Australia. The Sandstone for this was quarried at Helidon some 100+ km due west of Brisbane.

The University also has many small lakes and wooded areas that give you a tranquil walk opportunity along with an array of wildlife.