It was established in 1963 by the Archbishop of Hobart Sir Guilford Young and built by the Catholic Church and its community.

[2] The college was named after 16th century scholar St John Fisher and provides accommodation for around 110 students.

Ena Waite was an all-female residential college staffed by the Dominican and Loreto sisters, and operated from 1968 to 1980.

The Student Club holds events throughout the year for college residents, such as the Vatican Ball, pub crawls, an annual boat cruise, tours of the university, barbecues, and a significant O-Week orientation program.

John Fisher College colours are royal blue and white, and the playing uniforms for sports feature the "Vatican V" crest.