MacArthur Museum Brisbane

MacArthur Museum Brisbane explores the city’s wartime story through the people, places and alliances that shaped Brisbane between 1939 and 1945. Its focus extends beyond the front lines, examining how Queensland became a support base for the South-West Pacific campaign and how the war affected everyday life in the city. The museum also traces the developing cooperation between Australian and US forces, including General Douglas MacArthur’s role as Supreme Commander of Allied forces in the region.

The museum occupies part of the heritage-listed MacArthur Chambers building and incorporates MacArthur’s restored office. The galleries cover several perspectives on the period, including Brisbane’s wartime experience, civil defence, rationing, restrictions, entertainment, the role of the railways, and the work of the Navy, Army and Air Force. Other displays look at cooperation between Australian and US forces, including naval operations, the defence of Milne Bay and air force activities. Exhibitions are updated over time, so the material extends beyond a single story or viewpoint.

A further display examines the experiences of Australian prisoners of war in the Pacific, using physical and digital material to explore captivity, medical ingenuity and the brutality of Japanese prison camps. Together, the exhibits combine military history with the social history of Brisbane, making the museum relevant to visitors interested in the city as well as the broader Pacific conflict.

Located in West End, Brisbane, the museum suits solo visitors, families, school groups and organised outings. It also offers a setting for book launches, club visits and other functions. Visitors can attend on Tuesdays, Thursdays or Sundays, with bookings preferred and required for groups of eight or more. The stated museum hours are 10am to 3pm, with last entry at 2.30pm.