Established in 1984 this museum collects, preserves and exhibits the history of British, Colonial and the Australian Army in South Queensland from 1864 to the present.

Many residents of Brisbane are unaware of the historic precinct on Petrie Terrace which includes Victoria Barracks.  This peaceful complex, so close to Brisbane's CBD includes buildings which date back to 1864, built on the orders of the first Governor of Queensland, Sir George Bowen.

The original colonial buildings are characteristic of a 19th century British Empire military barracks.  Over the years other buildings and extensions have ensured the Barracks have remained an important part of Queensland's history, through two world wars, the Vietnam conflict and ongoing operations.  Currently a tri-service facility.

Visitors express delight with the surviving evidence of the colonial era.  Examples of this include the main barracks building, guardhouse and cells, parade ground, hospital, officers' quarters and tennis court.  The Barracks are strongly associated, through continued use, with the military.  It also has important connections with the Queensland Police Force and the mental health community. Victoria Barracks is a working barracks and a centre for social, educational and community activities facilitated by Army Museum South Queensland.