The APSC was founded in 2001 to physically and digitally store archives relating to Pentecostal history, and to encourage research into Pentecostal and Charismatic movements in Australasia and beyond. 

AC has the world’s largest community of researchers working in the field of Pentecostal studies. The centre promotes work in this field by coordinating research projects, hosting doctoral students, organising conferences and seminars, and publishing the Australasian Pentecostal Studies journal. The centre also hosts the annual Cartledge Lecture series, which was founded in 2006 in honour of the life and ministry of David Cartledge, former President of Southern Cross College and a significant leader within the Australian Pentecostal church. The Cartledge Lectures focus on Pentecostal engagement with culture and society. Former speakers in the lecture series have included Frank Macchia, Amos Yong, and Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen.